David Baker

David Baker, age 71, of Buchanan, Virginia, passed peacefully on March 7, 2026, at Carilion Hospital in Roanoke, Virginia.

Dave lived his life to the fullest, even after his cancer diagnosis nearly four years earlier. He faced his illness with hope, perseverance, and a deep trust in God’s plan, viewing this world as a temporary home. His life stood as a genuine testimony of grace, quiet strength, and unwavering faith. Those who knew him will remember his kind and compassionate heart, his ability to light up any room with a big smile, wonderful sense of humor, and contagious laugh. He genuinely loved people, never met a stranger, and had a special gift for nurturing animals, who were always drawn to him. Above all, Dave wanted to be remembered as a man of God whose life was rooted in his faith in Jesus Christ. He rarely missed an opportunity to share the love of Christ with others.

His faith journey began shortly after his wife Robin accepted salvation and invited him to join her at Forestville Baptist Church in Maryland, where Pastor Terry Brown guided them both. Together they faithfully served in youth ministry for many years, witnessing many young lives transformed. Dave later traveled on mission trips to Oklahoma, leading construction teams to serve the Choctaw Indians in Talihina and sharing the gospel. After moving to Buchanan, Virginia, in 2004, he and Robin opened a pet store in Lexington that became a Doggie Day Camp. They attended Mill Creek Baptist Church, where Dave served as Chairman of Deacons and taught Sunday school. In recent years, he and Robin found a welcoming home at Cave Rock Baptist Church in Troutville under Pastor Mark Childers. Dave also worked in household goods transportation and large-scale corporate and industrial relocations, including the move of an entire working hospital. Earlier in life, he served as a train engineer for Conrail, operating passenger and freight trains throughout Maryland, Washington D.C., Virginia, and up to New York. He was known for his strong work ethic, carpentry skills, and ability to fix almost anything.

Above all, Dave was a strong yet gentle man who loved his family fiercely. He considered it one of life’s greatest blessings to be a devoted husband, father, and Pop Pop. He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Robin (Ford) Baker, his son Phillip Jarboe, and two grandsons, Ryan and Travis, along with many family members and friends whose lives were touched by his lovingkindness, generosity, humor, and faith. He will remain forever in their hearts as a very special man.