Joy C. Greer Baker

JOY C. GREER BAKER, 89, of Little Rock died Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2015. She was born in Sweetwater, Texas to Azzie Allan Greer and Mary Lee Scott. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Scott Allan Greer and Bryan Dell Greer and husband of 49 years, Malcolm Keith Baker. Joy grew up in Sweetwater and Waco, Texas, graduating from La Vega High school in 1942. She attended Baylor University, where she met her future husband, Keith Baker. They married Sept. 1, 1942 before Keith left for the war, returning in 1945. With school and work, they lived in several cities, settling in Little Rock in 1957. After having two children, Joy continued her education at Little Rock University, graduating Magna Cum Laude in 1965. In 1975, she received her masters of education from the University of Arkansas. She taught 22 years in the Little Rock public schools and received honors for her excellent teaching. Joy embraced life, traveling extensively in the United States and England, visiting London several times. She volunteered at the McClellan V.A. hospital, played bridge, line danced, enjoyed live theater, music and art exhibitions. The last years of her life were a struggle with dementia. She is survived by her son, Greer Garth Baker ( Julie); daughter, Susan Baker Chambers ( George); sister-in-law, Dr. Ann L. Greer; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank Parkway Health Center and Baptist Hospice for their wonderful care. Donations may be made to CareforAnimals.org. The memorial service will be held Feb. 7, 5 p.m. at Calvary Baptist Church, 5700 Cantrell, Little Rock. Her online guestbook may be signed at www.griffinleggetthealeyroth.com.