Darleen Marie Baker

Darleen Marie Baker, 74,  passed away on April 28, 2025.  Preceded in death by her parents, Fredrick Lefler Houx and Mary Elisabeth Connelly and her brother, Frederick Lefler Houx III.

Those left to cherish her memory are her siblings, Maureen Bajor, Colleen Whiteman, Kathleen Callaghan and Laureen Middleton; her children; son, Isaiah Baker (Whitney Baker); daughter, Hannah Parks (Michael Parks); son, Josiah Baker; daughter, Elisabeth Adamo; son, Obadiah Baker (Mary Kenon Baker); and daughter, Emily Appleby (Frank Sanfilippo);  her grandchildren; Kate Baker, Ethan Chand, Bella Baker, Olivia Baker, Ryan Elkins, Kaylin Swiger, Lucas Parks, Benjamin Baker, Katriana Baker, Isaiah Richards, Michael Baker, Alma Baker, Sophia Adamo, Wayland Adamo, Jebadiah Baker, Miles Baker, Chip Baker, Jack Appleby, Henry Appleby, and McKinley Sanfilippo and great-grandchild, Eva Grace Ann Richards. 

Darleen was born on January 14, 1951, in Lombard Illinois. In 1971, she married Clyde Dozier Baker, and together they eventually settled in Floyd County, Virginia, in the late 1970s. There, on a quiet farm at the end of a dirt road, she raised six children surrounded by a pond, gardens, and the beauty of nature she loved so much. 

Darleen was passionate about writing and baking, she filled her home with creativity, warmth, and the comforting aroma of something always in the oven. She was a lifelong learner who pursued higher education at New River Community College and Virginia Tech, earning a Bachelor's degree in Communications and a Master's degree in English. She went on to use her talents working for Virginia Tech until her retirement in 2011. 

Above all, Darleen was a loving and selfless mother, and later a devoted grandmother. She was blessed with 20 grandchildren and recently welcomed her first great-grandchild, born just one day before her last birthday. Her greatest joy came from caring for her family and making every child and grandchild feel deeply loved. 

Darleen had a tender heart for animals, especially dogs, and always had one by her side. 

After a brave two year battle with illness, Darleen passed away peacefully on April 28, 2025. She now rests in the loving arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. 

She is remembered with immeasurable love and gratitude. We love you Mommy and Grandma. You are finally healed. 

There will be no visitation or service, but there will be a celebration of life gathering later in the summer. 

Special thanks to Medi Home Health and Hospice, Carilion Clinic Interventional Radiology and UVA Healthcare System.