Patricia Jean "PJ" Loper Baker

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Patricia Jean (PJ) Loper Baker, a loving wife, devoted mother, cherished Mimi, and beloved sister. PJ left this world on September 21, 2023, surrounded by the love of her family.

PJ was born on April 2nd, 1960, in Philadelphia, Mississippi.  She graduated from Franklin County High School in Winchester, Tennessee in 1978 and retired from Veteran’s Affairs in 2023.  She was predeceased by both parents, Fran Cois “FC” and Earline “Granny” Goldman Loper, as well as her brother Jerry “Pistol” Lynn Loper and uncles Luther Thomas Goldman and Roger Glen Moore. She grew up in a tight-knit family with her brothers, Pistol, Jeff Bradley Loper, John (Leslie) Earl Loper, and sister, Kimberly (Ana) Ann Loper.  They shared countless adventures and created lasting memories together.

On June 17th, 1978, PJ married the love of her life, Ricki Dean Baker and this year, they celebrated their 45^th Wedding Anniversary.  PJ and Ricki were blessed with two wonderful children, Clinton Wade (Lauren) Baker and Kalyn (Hunter) Christina Kramer. PJ was a devoted and loving mother who tirelessly cared for her children, instilling in them values of kindness, compassion, and perseverance. She was their biggest cheerleader and advocate, always encouraging them to pursue their dreams and be the best versions of themselves.

One of PJ's greatest joys in life was being a Mimi to her grandchildren, Emma Grace Kramer, Jackson Wade Baker, Avery Kate Kramer, and Bennett Farris Baker. In addition, PJ also served as Mimi to her sister’s son, Benjamin Cole Izaguirre-Loper.  She cherished every moment spent with all five and took great pride in spoiling them and watching them grow and thrive.

In addition to her family, PJ is survived by a lifelong friend, Susan Maxwell Nelson.  PJ met Susan in fourth grade and the two of them developed a lifelong friendship that has endured more than five decades. 

PJ had a deep love for reading and tackled many of the classics, as well as some of the most important and influential works of modernist literature. However, her favorite author was Tennessee Williams, whose body of work, she read numerous times.  She loved to travel, and her adventures took her across the United States, into Central America, and Europe. 

PJ was a pillar of strength and a source of comfort during challenging times. With the passing of her mother, PJ took on the role as family matriarch. She faced life's trials with fierce determination, showing us all the true meaning of courage.

PJ's memory will be cherished, and her legacy will live on through the love and memories she created with her family and friends. She leaves behind a void that can never be filled, but her spirit will continue to guide and inspire us all.  PJ, you will forever remain in our hearts.  Rest in peace, dear wife, mother, sister, Mimi, and friend. You will be dearly missed, but your love and memories will endure.

A private celebration of PJ's life will be held on September 26^th, 2023, at Crossroads Baptist Church in Pelahatchie, Mississippi at 3pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to American Cancer Society in her honor.