Melvin James Baker, Sr., passed away at 5:45 AM early Friday morning, February 12, 2021, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy.

Melvin was born June 17, 1948, the son of Elza and Isabelle (Goff) Baker in Princeton, Missouri.  He was united in marriage to Betty Elaine Saul on May 12, 1967, in Chillicothe, Missouri.  He drove for various Trucking companies over the years.  Melvin enjoyed hunting and fishing.  He was a long-time member of the Hancock County Saddle Club in Carthage.  He also enjoyed car racing and his Dodge Charger.  He enjoyed horseback riding in his younger years and now enjoyed watching his grandchildren and great grandchildren ride.

Melvin is survived by his wife, Betty, of Carthage; a daughter, Jody (Gale) Blackwell of Carthage; grandchildren, Anthony Baker, Kristina Wurster and Brandon Blackwell; great grandchildren, Aeryess and James Baker, Riley and Emmalyn Kenney and Briella Bailey; one brother, Reverend Earl Wayne (Joan) Baker of Green Castle, Missouri; and a sister, Beverly Coon of Trenton, Missouri; sisters-in-law, Marjorie (Rollie) Madison of Des Moines, Iowa; and Martha McEntire of Harrison, Arkansas; brothers-in-law, Melvin (Karen) Saul of Trenton, Missouri; and Marvin (Sally) Saul of Wisconsin; as well as several nieces, nephews, great nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Melvin “Jimmy” Baker, Jr; and brother-in-law, Larry Saul of Galt, Missouri.

Funeral services will be held at a later date in Trenton, Missouri.  Memorials may be directed to the Hancock County Saddle Club.  Printy Funeral Home of Carthage is in charge of arrangements.