Eliza Mae Baker

Eliza M. Baker 87, of Baltimore, Maryland, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, October 12, 2020 in the company of her devoted husband of 68 years, Hubert Baker, Jr. whom she affectingly called “June”. Born November 13,1932 in Raleigh, North Carolina, she was the daughter of the late Julius Caesar Johnson and the late Sallie Carrie Johnson. She was predeceased by her brother Melvin Johnson Sr. and two sisters Bernadette Johnson and Amanda Johnson Hinton. Liza received her early education in Wake County Public Schools, Raleigh, North Carolina. On November 30th, 1953, she united in Holy Matrimony with “June”, and that began a true adventure and journey. The union welcomed four sons and three daughters. She is survived by her four sons, Andre Johnson of Baltimore, MD, Larry Baker (Sabrina), of Potomac, MD, Ronnie Baker (Gwendolyn) of Owings Mills, MD, and Bruce Baker of Reisterstown, MD. She is also survived by her three daughters, Sandra E. Baker of Baltimore, MD, Lizette Denise Vance (Robert) of Baltimore, MD, and Tracy P. Baker of Towson, MD. The name that Liza was most frequently referred to was Liza June because one was rarely seen without the other. She did not drive so “June” chauffeured her everywhere. Needless to say, “Momma” was the second name she was most frequently referred to then Grandma, and ultimately Great Granny, but she was still “Liza” to June. She was so much more than those words imply. Liza was a phenomenal woman; truly epitomizing a graceful, classy lady. She inspired her children to be different and pursue their dreams. Liza had her arms open for a hug when needed but a look that could stop you in your tracks if she was not pleased with you. Upon moving to Baltimore, Liza continued her education in night school, while “June” took care of the children. She excelled at cooking fabulous meals and desserts. Liza had a sumptuous meal for “June” when he came in from work. And making sure the family ate together for each meal was one of her mandates. She always welcomed others at her table and ironically many a person showed up for holiday celebrations. Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter were her favorite holidays and it was like eating at the Ritz Carlton. Her table was always eloquently set with fine china. So many memories at the Baker home weddings, cookouts, fish-fry’s, holidays that extended far beyond the immediate family. Anyone who needed a port in the storm was welcomed at the Bakers, for refuge, warmth, laughter, and hugs. At an early age, Liza professed her faith in Jesus Christ in North Carolina. Upon moving to Baltimore, she continued in her faith walk by joining Little Ark Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Reverend Matthew Marcus, Sr. where she became a dedicated member. She continued under the leadership of Pastor James L. Carter, now Bishop carter where she served faithfully with the Nurses Unit. Although Liza had a great affection for the “Ark” church, she left to support her daughter Pastor Vance in the dedication of her calling to establish the River of Life Ministry and earned the title of Mother Baker. There she led the Finance Ministry. Somewhere around 1965, Liza started working at The Johns Hopkins Hospital in the Medical Records Department. She served JHH for 30 years and received many allocations upon her retirement.

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Eliza Mae Baker

November 13, 1932 - October 12, 2020