Mary Margaret Lathers Baker, 105, passed away May 12th, 2026, at Gasconade Manor Nursing Home, Owensville, MO. Mary was born January 16th, 1921, to Austin and Effie Lathers.

She was the youngest of three girls and grew up in Duluth, MN where she became an accomplished figure skater and aided in costume design for the early ice follies. She met Donald Clyde Baker at Iowa State University, and they were married on May 2, 1942, before he was sent to China with the Army during World War II. She earned her degree in Textiles and Design. She also studied Nutrition and continued her research on the subject throughout her lifetime.

Mary loved Bible study, sewing, quilting and parades. She was often called upon to hostess bridge parties and New Year’s Eve events where she would oversee the roasting of a whole hog. During World War II she served her country by working with blueprints in a naval shipyard.

She is survived by Son, Clyde Austin Baker (Jeanne), and Lee Howard Baker (Karen), Daughter, Fay Ellen Baker Owsley (Rick), several Grandchildren, Great Grandchildren, Nieces and Nephews. She was preceded in death by Husband, Donald Clyde Baker, Sister, Harriet Basil and Ellen McMartin Green, Grandson, Shawn Howard Baker.

She believed in the Lord Jesus Christ early in her life and her heart’s desire was to serve Him. She did that faithfully as a loving wife and mother. She is “safely home”. “Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.” Psalm 116:15

 Memorial Service: Graveside Service at JB Cemetery in St. Louis, MO will be held at a later date.

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