Donald "Don" Ray Baker

Mr. Donald Ray Baker, 87, of Thomasville passed away, Friday March 27, 2026 at Westchester Manor in High Point.

Don was born July 6, 1938 to the late Nathan William Baker and Louberta Lee Baker in Johnston County. He was a graduate of High Point High School class of 1957 and later received his associates degree in General Business Technology from Horry-Georgetown Technical College, Conway, SC.  Don faithfully and honorably served his country in the United States Air Force retiring as a Senior Master Sergeant after a 28-year career. Don received many awards during his tenure: Meritorious Service Medal-one oak leaf cluster, AF Commendation Medal-one oak leaf cluster, AF Outstanding Unit Award-two oak leaf clusters, AF Good Conduct Medal-six oak leaf clusters, National Defense Service Medal, and AF Longevity Service Award Ribbon-five oak leaf clusters. Don loved to travel and enjoyed exploring the many places he was assigned to by the military. Fishing and eating out were two of his other passions, only restricted by his dedication to family and ill health. He was well-known in many local restaurants, maintaining cheerful friendships with many he came in contact with. Above all, he cherished his family and was generous to a fault with his love and support. 

In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Annie “Ann” Ruth Paul Baker; son-in-law, Danny Mangosing; siblings, Pauline Stewart (Gene), Harvey Baker (Betty), Minnie Brown (Tommy); brothers-in-law, Carl Owens, Clay Peele, Lloyd Bingham, and Chris Gresham.

Surviving are his two beloved daughters, Ruthie Lynn Mangosing of Williamsburg, VA, Cheryl Ann Mann of Thomasville; three grandsons, Douglas “Scott” Mann II, Daniel Mangosing, and Matthew Mangosing, all of VA; siblings, Loudean Owens of Lexington, Jo Ann Peele of Randleman, Glenda Bingham of Asheboro, Cathy Gresham of Oxford, Ricky Baker (Bonnie) of Liberty; sister-in-law, Barbara Dixon of High Point; special niece, Margaret “Mimi” Wright of Asheboro; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will greet friends Wednesday, April 8, 2026 from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the J.C. Green and Sons Funeral Home in Thomasville. A funeral service will be held Thursday, April 9, 2026 at 11:00 AM at the J.C. Green and Sons Chapel in Thomasville with Rev. Luther Kirk officiating. A graveside service with military honors will follow at 1:30 PM at Salisbury National Cemetery, 501 Statesville Blvd, Salisbury, NC 28144.

In lieu of flowers, memorial may be given to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital online or American Cancer Society online. 

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