Doye Baker

Doye Ratliff Baker, Sr., 86, of Robinson, made his transition on July 3, 2023.

Doye was born at home in the tiny community of Rainbow, Texas outside of Glen Rose, to Austin Granville Baker Sr. and Lida Ratliff Baker. He was the youngest of seven children in a large tight-knit family.

Doye moved his family to Waco in 1964 and lived in and around Waco until his passing. Doye was a hard worker, had a restless mind, dogged determination, and loved challenges. His entrepreneurial spirit took him to many different jobs and projects over the years.

Doye said he married the two best women in the world, Lynda Johnson Prnka, the mother of his children, and Esmeralda Gonzales Baker, his life and business partner as well as his best friend for over 25 years. Doye is survived by son Ken Baker, and wife Tish, daughter Kim Baker Obenoskey, and husband Craig, daughter-in-law, Michelle Baker, stepdaughter Beverly Johnston, and husband Duke; grandchildren, Heather Baker Roukoski, Kenny Baker Jr., Daniel Obenoskey, Abigail Obenoskey Hyman, Aaron Obenoskey, Doye Baker III, Jay Baker, Kay Baker, Brianna Johnston, and 10 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, six siblings, and youngest son, Doye Ratliff Baker, Jr.

A special thank you to his caregiver and friend, Lucy Harper.

A family gathering will be held at a later date. In remembrance of Doye’s life, the family asks that any charitable contributions be made to Shepherd’s Heart Food Pantry in Robinson, Texas.