Daphne Irene Mary Baker

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Daphne Irene Mary Clapham Baker, age 93, who peacefully left this world on Thursday, January 23, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on October 16, 1931, in Norwich, England, she was the daughter of the late Sydney Leonard and Irene Mary Clapham.

Daphne was raised in England and, following the war, attended Blyth School, where she earned her high school diploma. She went on to study at Underwood Secretarial College, where she completed an apprenticeship and earned certifications in typing and shorthand.

In 1949, Daphne met her future husband, Larry, in England. After a visit to the United States, Larry returned to England, and soon after, they became engaged. Daphne moved to the United States, and the couple was married in 1951. Together, they built a beautiful life, raising four children and becoming active in their church and social circles.

A defining moment in Daphne's spiritual journey occurred in 1963 when Brother Ed Peek, visited their home and led her to the Lord. From that day forward, Daphne's love for Jesus became the cornerstone of her life. She shared her faith with everyone she met and was a woman of deep faith and compassion.

Throughout her career, Daphne worked as a secretary and, in 1985, began her long tenure with Home Interiors & Gifts, where she worked until 2000. She was also heavily involved in her church, teaching Sunday School, singing in the choir, and serving as the president of the Ladies' Group. At one point, she proudly served as the District President as well.

Daphne's devotion to her family was unwavering, and when her husband, Larry, suffered a major stroke in 2000, she became his dedicated caregiver, alongside their children, until his passing in 2006. In the years that followed, Daphne moved into an apartment built within her daughter Gail's home, where she spent her remaining years. Despite facing many health challenges, including spinal stenosis, osteoporosis, arthritis, bursitis and congestive heart failure, Daphne's faith and love for her family remained unshaken. She continued to live her life with grace, walking with a cane and, when necessary, using a transport chair with the help of her daughter.

In addition to her parents, Daphne was preceded in death by her loving husband, Larry Baker; son, Glen Baker; daughter-in-law, Linda Baker; brothers, Neville Clapham and Richard Clapham; son-in-law, Larry Dennis Cole; and a great-great-grandchild, Remi Mark O'Neal.

She is survived by her sons, Clint (Elizbieta) Baker, Kerry (Maria) Baker; daughter, Gail Cole; sister, Rosemary (Rodney) Holliday; nine grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

The family will receive friends at Clark Funeral Home on Monday, January 27, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 PM, with Pastor Thomas Brown officiating. Immediately after the service, Daphne will be laid to rest privatley at Mt. Harmony Memorial Gardens, where Clint, Seth, Brett, Chase, Skyler, Chandler, and Chainey will serve as pallbearers.

Daphne's presence, kindness, and faith will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love and devotion will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Clark Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the services for Mrs. Daphne Irene Mary Clapham Baker.