Donna Baker Obituary

Donna Smith Baker, of Chesapeake, VA, and formerly of Virginia's Eastern Shore, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at her son's home, surrounded by the love of her family. She was 71.
Born on October 23, 1953, in Nassawadox, VA, Donna was the daughter of Donald Carroll Smith and Norma Jean Davis. Growing up as an Army brat, she lived a portion of her young life in Germany. She loved making connections with other Army brats, specifically those who attended Stuttgart American High School. Donna attended several reunions and held many long-lasting friendships from her years in Germany.
After returning to the Eastern Shore, she graduated from Onancock High School, where she played softball, basketball, and was a cheerleader. After a year at Chowan College, Donna continued her education at Eastern Shore Community College, where she earned her associate degree. While attending ESCC, she met her husband, Joe Scott Baker. She was married to him for over 20 years. The two raised their children in Chesapeake.
Always caring and willing to lend a helping hand, Donna devoted years as a volunteer. She volunteered at Faith Alive Ministries Food Pantry. Donna was also past-president of Deep Creek Lions Club, where she earned the honor of "Lion of the Year" three times over.
A passionate genealogist, Donna spent over 30 years uncovering her family's roots, tracing one line all the way back to the 1400s. Her love for history and family lineage was matched only by her eclectic taste in music-often found deep in research with Joe Bonamassa or Jimmy Buffett playing in the background.
But Donna's greatest joy came from being a mother and grandmother. She was a dedicated Cub Scout den leader and PTA board member while her children were in school, always involved, always encouraging. When she became a grandmother, "Ma-B" was born-a title she wore with pride and affection. Her children and grandchildren were the light of her life, and she poured her boundless love and energy into every moment she spent with them.
Donna is survived by her children, Ryan Kane Baker and his wife Tammara, Joshua Shane Baker and his wife Ashlynn, and Jessica Rachel Baker, all of Chesapeake, VA; siblings, Dale L. Smith and his wife, Susan, of Onancock, VA, and Donnell Kisa and her husband, Jeff, of Plant City, FL; grandchildren, Natalee Faith Baker, Collin Gregory Baker, Jacob Noah Baker, Kiley Marie Baker, Trevor David Baker, Olivia Carroll Baker, and Carter Joe Baker; great-grandchild, Maddox Lincoln Baker; nieces, Amanda Holland (Robbie) and Hana Kisa; nephew, Jason Hart (April); brother-in-law, Rob Maddox, of Marion Station, MD; and great-nieces and great-nephews, David Maddox, Jackson Hart, and Avery Hart.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Donald Carroll Smith and Norma Davis Sprague; her former husband and father of her children, Joe Scott Baker; and sister, Denise Smith Maddox.
The family will gather privately for a Celebration of Life Service for Donna. She will be interred in Onancock Cemetery.
Memory tributes may be shared with the family at www.williamsfuneralhomes.com.
Arrangements by the Williams-Onancock Funeral Home.
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