Kelly Wayne Baker

Kelly Wayne Baker, born on November 2, 1967, in Seymour Johnson AFB, Goldsboro, North Carolina, passed away on March 1, 2025, near Canton, Texas. He was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, humor, and loyalty.

Kelly dedicated a significant part of his life to his career as a truck driver for several companies; most currently for the JB Hunt Company, where he displayed unwavering commitment and professionalism. Beyond his professional pursuits, he also cherished the time spent helping his sister at Equestrian Acres where the Barn Family loved and adored Kelly, highlighting his willingness to support and uplift those he cared for.

As a man who never met a stranger, Kelly was deeply rooted in his community. His great sense of humor and warmth made him a beloved figure among friends and family alike. He loved people wholeheartedly, deriving joy from connecting with others and building lasting relationships. His compassionate and caring nature endeared him to many, and he will be remembered for the kindness he so effortlessly shared.

Throughout his life, Kelly nurtured a passion for motocross racing since childhood, relishing the thrill of riding motorcycles with friends and traveling to new places. Kelly loved his Biker community and was a staple with the Longview and Tyler area riders.  He was an active contributing member of the Harley Owners Group Roughneck Chapter #5263.  Kelly had lifelong friends all over the United States from his riding trips.  They were his extended family and he loved them all as family.  However, one of his proudest accomplishments was becoming a grandfather, a role that brought him immense joy and fulfillment.

Kelly leaves behind a legacy of love through his devoted family. He is survived by his daughter, Kaitlyn VanMeter and her husband Robert; his father, Gerald Baker; stepmother, Beverly Baker; his sister, Lisa Reiner; his step-sister, Tiffaney Fields and her husband Scott; and his granddaughter, Amelia VanMeter. He is also survived by his nieces, Nikki Nedbalek and her husband Dave, Samantha Tracy, Brooklyn Tracy, and Journee Lawrence, and his great-nephews, Brady Tracy and Trae Nedbalek. Additionally, he is remembered by many other loving family members and friends who were fortunate to know him.

Kelly was preceded in death by his mother, Roberta Jean Baker; his sister, Wendy Suzanne Tracy; and his nephew, Clint Louis Tracy. Their memories will continue to illuminate the hearts of those he left behind.

A Rosary will be held on March 9, 2025, at Rader Funeral Home in Kilgore, Texas, starting at 4:00 PM, followed by visitation from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. A Mass will take place the following day, March 10, 2025, at Christ the King Catholic Church in Kilgore at 10:00 AM, leading to interment at Mason Cemetery in Arp, Texas, at noon.

A reception will be held at Christ the King Catholic Church following the interment.

Kelly Wayne Baker will be deeply missed, but his spirit will forever resonate in the countless lives he touched with his kindness, humor, and unyielding love for his family and friends.