Obituary of Paul D. Baker, Jr.

Paul D. Baker, Jr. 79,of Elmira, New York passed away on June 20, 2023 after a brief illness. He is survived by his wife, Mary Ann with whom he would have celebrated their 57th anniversary in August; sons, Michael Baker of Binghamton, NY, Hon. Christopher Baker and his wife Karen with their children, Michael and Jacob; daughter Jennifer Baker Squires and her husband David with their children, Griffin and Abbey. Of his many accomplishments, Paul was most proud of all his grandchildren and was extremely supportive in their many endeavors.

He is also survived by his brother and sister, James A. Baker Sr. and Mary Ellen Briggs and their children. 

Paul received his Bachelor's Degree from Mansfield University and later his Master's Degree from Elmira College.

For 35 years, Paul was a Probation Officer with Chemung County where he specialized in counseling at-risk youth and their families. He initiated and spearheaded a number of projects while at Probation, most notably the "Youth Center" in downtown Elmira which offered teenagers a safe and supportive space. As a result of his work in the community, in 2000 he was honored the Hon. Daniel J. Donahoe Award by Chemung County for "his service to youth and families and has contributed to the quality of life in Chemung County".

For many years, Paul also was the owner of Baker & Sons Painting, providing painting and contracting work throughout the community. He brought the same dedication and work ethic to the business as he did with everything in life and had a reputation for the quality of his work.

Throughout his life, Paul was very active in the community, volunteering his time and efforts to a number of projects: including his work with St. Patrick's Church. He was remarkably proud of being part of the group which restored the "Popcorn Truck" at Wisner Park.

Paul was blessed with having a wide circle of friends he developed over the course of many years, all of whom he considered part of his family; especially his close friends, Rich Wilbur, John Sutton and Joe Lagonegro who each went above and beyond in being there for Paul when he needed it most.

Family and friends are invited to McInerny Funeral Home, 502 W. Water St., Elmira, on Thursday, June 22, 2023, from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. A prayer service will be held at the funeral home at 9:15 a.m. on Friday, June 23, 2023, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Patrick’s Church, 604 Park Place, Elmira at 10:00 am.  Committal prayers and interment will then take place at St. Peter and Paul’s Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, the family would request that those who wish to express their sympathy please consider making a donation to the Arnot Health Auxiliary 600 Roe Avenue, Elmira, NY 14905 or Southern Tier Hospice (Care First NY), 3805 Meads Creek Road, Painted Post, NY 14870.