MSG Jesse Lee Baker, USA Ret.

MSG JESSE LEE BAKER, USA, Ret., 84, beloved husband of Vivian Neal Baker, passed away Wednesday, February 25, 2026, in Aiken, SC, surrounded by his family.

Jesse was born in Augusta, Georgia, and his early years were shaped by a military upbringing—a path he continued by joining the United States Army at age 18. He served honorably for 21 years, with his proudest accomplishment being his work as an ASA Cryptologist Linguist, rising to the rank of Master Sergeant. His service included deployments to Vietnam, Germany, Okinawa, Thailand, and Turkey, and he was awarded two Bronze Stars for meritorious service in a combat zone. After retiring from the Army in 1980, he made Aiken County his home.

Jesse continued his commitment to public service with the Columbia Metropolitan Airport Department of Public Safety, where he advanced and retired as Chief of Police in 1996. His leadership and dedication left a lasting impact on his community.

He cherished his 63 years of marriage to his beloved wife, Vivian, and was a loving father and proud grandfather, affectionately known as “Papa.” He will be deeply missed by his family, who carry with them many cherished memories and the legacy of respect he leaves behind.

He enjoyed camping, fishing, and tending to his hobby farm, finding joy in the outdoors and in time spent with family. Amateur radio was a passion he carried for more than 50 years. He treasured the friendships formed across the airwaves. On February 25, Jesse became a Silent Key, but his voice and spirit will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew him. 73, SK.

In addition to his beloved wife Vivian, Jesse is survived by three children: Timothy Lee Baker (Kimberly Fulmer) of Wagener, SC; Donna Leigh Goebel (Norm) of Mount Holley, NC; and Edward Daniel Baker (Andrea Carolyn) of Wake Forest, NC. He is also survived by six grandchildren: Jonathon Neal Baker (Jennifer), Jacqueline Nicole James (Kyle), Tanner Lee Jacobs (Laura), Christen Elise Baker, Amanda Grace Baker, and Megan Danielle Baker, along with four great-grandchildren: Benjamin Neal Baker, Aubrey Nicole James, Ellis Lee James, and Ayven Elizabeth Jacobs.

Family and friends are invited to a Memorial Service with military honors on March 14th at 11 AM at Shellhouse–Rivers Funeral Home, with visitation to follow. Interment will be on March 16th at 1 PM at Fort Jackson National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial contributions to be directed to the SC Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. https://www.alz.org/sc

SHELLHOUSE – RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, 715 EAST PINE LOG RD., AIKEN, SC