
Nedra “Jean” Baker, 86, passed from this life unexpectedly and too soon at 10:17AM, June 23, 2024, at Unity Point-Methodist Hospital in Des Moines.
She was born in Norwalk, Iowa at 3:10AM in the morning of December 24, 1937, to John Simeon Blackford and Dorothy Lucille (Smith) Blackford, an early Christmas present and the fifth of seven children.
In 1942 her family moved to the south side of Des Moines.
Jean met her husband, Glen Raymond Baker, in 1955 after his return from military duty in Germany during the Korean War. Glen and Jean were married August 15, 1955, and were together for 66 years. They became permanent residents of the south side of Des Moines. They enjoyed road trips, camping, fishing, eating out and “thrifting” for treasures until Glen’s passing on February 26, 2022.
Family gatherings, her children, her grandchildren, her great grandchildren, brothers, sisters and nieces and nephews were Jean’s greatest joy.
She was known for the beautifully decorated and delicious birthday cakes she made with love. She was interested in Genealogy and was a proud member of the D.AR. She also collected “Betty Boop” memorabilia and small chicken Knick knacks. She loved animals, especially her devoted pets, including fish, birds, cats, dogs, guinea pig, rabbits, chickens and horses. She was preceded in death by two sisters, two brothers, and her husband. She will be missed by family and friends.