Michael Allen (Mike) Baker, age 62 entered eternal rest on Monday July 20, 2026, after a long and extended illness. Mike was a graduate of Clintwood High School where he received a perfect attendance award for not missing a day of school since 8th grade. Thereafter, Mike continued his education, receiving an associate's degree in business management from Mountain Empire Community College.

The summer after receiving his degree and preparing to enter University of Virginia's College at Wise (Clinch Valley College), he became inflicted with a rare eye disease that left him totally blind. Thereafter, Mike suffered another major health set back with kidney disease. He suddenly found himself on kidney dialysis and was diagnosed with end stage renal failure. Mike spent the last 15 years on dialysis, first at Norton Fresenius then at West Kingsport Fresenius dialysis center. Mike's health had deteriorated in the last year, but he was able to stay at home with brother Greg and sister-in-law Lora.

As you probably know, Mike was a huge sports fan listening to games on XM radio and Television.  He was able to travel two times to be in his favorite place cheering on his favorite team, the Dallas Cowboys. He never gave up on the Cowboys, just like he refused to give up on himself. Mike was fun, smart and could rattle off statistics off the top of his head. His love for the Cowboys will go with him.

Mike never ever complained about his medical plight or anything. He had a positive, can-do attitude and he did. He did things most of us would never try to do with his disabilities. He kept pushing and pushing through one challenge after another. He was also a lover of country music, listening to the Grand Ole Opry most every weekend, if a game didn't interfere with it. He enjoyed going to shows at the Jettie Baker Center, especially if cousin Louella was with him. Until he couldn't go any longer, he was a faithful member of Dominion Health and Fitness where he looked forward to seeing all his gym friends.  That was Mike!

He is preceded in death by his mother and father, Martha Anderson Baker and Mayor Donald Burns Baker. He is survived by his brother, Greg Baker and sister-in-law Lora; his nephew Thomas Gregory Baker and his niece Emily Baker Dressner. Mike is also survived by nephews Burns Baker and Wells Baker and nephew, John Thomas Dressner and niece, Claire Dressner. He is survived by a host of special cousins, aunts and uncles and all his many friends. Mike was lucky to have the help and assistance of Jean Edwards and Susie Fleming for many years, both like family to us. He cherished his Anderson, Baker Reedy and Pillion family, especially Elwanda Pillion who Mike had a special connection with.

Funeral services for Mike will be conducted Sunday July 26, 2026, 3 PM at the Clintwood Funeral Home Chapel with Terry Price officiating.   A special eulogy will be delivered by brother, Greg Baker. Pallbearers will be Mike's friends and family. He will be laid to rest in Phipps Cemetery, Clintwood, beside his mother, who devoted much of her life caring for Mike and his dad who made sure every need was always met. Mike's good friend from high school Phillip Mullins will preside at graveside.

The family will receive friends from 1PM till service time.