Teresa Elaine Baker
May 23, 1971 – December 7, 2023
Our beloved Teresa Elaine Baker was born on May 23, 1971, in Gainesville, FL, to John Henry Baker and Roberta Taylor Baker. She attended Little Wood Elementary, Fort Clarke Middle, and was a proud graduate of Buchholz High School, Class of 1989. She was also a member of Upward Bound at UF. After graduating from high school, she attended Santa Fe College where she received her education in Medical Transcription. Teresa started her work life as an employee of the Gainesville Sun newspaper. She spent the next 18 years employed by Shands Hospital, where she worked in various positions within the Patient Financial Services Department. Teresa was most recently employed by LifeSouth Community Blood Center.
Teresa accepted Christ at an early age. She was baptized and remained a lifelong member of Debose Chapel United Methodist Church in Citra, FL.
Teresa had a vibrant and outgoing personality which led to her involvement in many community organizations. Her love of dance started at an early age when she became a member of the Lavern Porter Dancers. For many years, she could be seen performing at various community events or showcasing her talents at post UF parade activities. She supported unity and service in the community by becoming a member of the Philo Affiliate, Eta Phi Sigma Graduate Chapter, of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Serving Thanksgiving dinner to families at the Ronald McDonald House, collecting school supplies, participating in the annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk and the March of Dimes, Walk for Babies. Teresa took her love of service to another level when she founded the illustrious Women of Distinction – Crystals (WOD-C). A group with the purpose of fostering sisterhood and empowerment among women.
Teresa was always a mom first, her love and devotion to her only child, Napria, knew no bounds. Her commitment to her family was unwavering, and she was always there to support her child in every activity that Napria pursued. Whether it was cheerleading, band, volleyball, or a cultural event. She was always there. Cheering on her daughter and the team. Her dedication and hard work did not go unnoticed, as she was often recognized as the “Team Mom” and received numerous awards for her contributions. She spoke highly of her child constantly and was truly her biggest fan. Through her boundless love and nurturing spirit, she took on another child, Tischaundra Berry, into her family and into her heart.
Teresa’s memories will live on in the life of her beautiful daughter, Teryn Napria Ellis, who was born on March 8th, 1996, to her devoted relationship with her high school sweetheart, Napoleon Ellis.
She is also survived by her loving parents, John and Roberta Baker; Brother, Terance Baker (Detria); Aunts, Bettye Blackwell and Bunny Taylor-Ross (Barry); Uncle Theodore Taylor (Beverly); Nephews, Terance “DJ” Baker and Armani Jones. Along with a host of cousins, family and friends that loved her.