Dr. Raymond Graham Baker

Published 1:33 pm Tuesday, May 27, 2025

Dr. Raymond Graham Baker, 90, of Natchez, departed this life peacefully Saturday, May 24, 2025, at Merit Health River Region Medical Center in Vicksburg, Mississippi, following a brief illness.

Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, May 29, 2025, at Cedar Hill Cemetery in Vicksburg with Judge Forrest Al Johnson officiating. Burial will follow under the direction of Laird Funeral Home.

Dr. Baker was born Aug. 22, 1934, in Vicksburg, the son of Frank Ernest Baker and Ethel Vivian Graham Baker, both of whom predeceased him. He was also predeceased by the love of his life, his wife of 59 years, Laura Ruth Palmer Baker, who died in 2019.

A veteran of the U. S. Army, he obtained a B.S. degree in animal husbandry from Mississippi State University and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Auburn University. Dr. Baker worked as a veterinarian for the USDA in southwest Mississippi, servicing more dairy farms than anyone else in the state. He retired in 1994 and was a life member of the Mississippi Veterinary Association.

Dr. Baker was a faithful member of Grace United Methodist Church of Natchez, serving as a Sunday school teacher and occasionally delivering sermons. He was a true southern gentleman, characterized by his intelligence and grace.

Memorial contributions may be made to Grace United Methodist Church or the charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at lairdfh.com.