David Dwayne Baker

David Dwayne Baker, 73, of Aurora passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Springfield surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on March 31, 1952, in Aurora, the son of William Loyd and Helen Elizabeth (Wishon) Baker.
He graduated from Aurora High School in 1970. On Feb. 28, 1970, he married his high school sweetheart, Sharon Sue Jameson, who preceded him in death on Aug. 16, 2014. They shared 44 years of devoted and loving marriage. In later years, he found love again with Tonya Smith. The couple was united in marriage on Aug. 6, 2025. Though their time together was brief, their deep affection and companionship were evident to all who knew them.
He was employed as a meat cutter and later worked for EFCO before he and Sharon established their own business, Baker Made Crafts. Through this venture, he was able to pursue his passion for woodworking and travel. Prior to his retirement, he worked at Casey’s.
He is survived by his wife Tonya Baker; his children, Tamrae (Jeff) Crossland, Jeffrey Baker and Jason (Penny) Baker; his 11 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; his siblings, Leon (Martha) Baker, Richard (Pat) Baker and Bill (Carol) Baker; along with numerous nieces, nephews and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his first wife Sharon Baker; his parents, William and Helen Baker; and his sister Ruby Gadberry.
A funeral service was held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 17, at Crafton-Cantrell Funeral Home in Aurora. Burial followed at Maple Park Cemetery in Aurora. Visitation was held from 6-8 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 16, in the funeral home chapel.
Pallbearers were Kyle Baker, Kody Baker, Weston Baker, Zachary Baker, Kayden Baker and David Baker. Honorary pallbearers are Jared Evans and Ron Smith.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family in care of the funeral home.
Online condolences may be shared at www.CraftonCantrellFuneralHome.com.