Obituary of Willie Joe Baker

Mr. Willie Joe Baker, age 76 a resident of Auburndale passed away Sunday, September 4, 2022 at his home surrounded by family. Mr. Baker was born March 29, 1946 in Wildwood, Florida to William Joseph and Mildred Dorothy (Stevens) Baker. Willie was a Polk County resident for 75 years and graduated from Auburndale High School Class of 1966. He was a United States Navy Veteran earning (National Defense Service Medal & Vietnam Service Medal w/Bronze Star).  He was the Owner/Operator of Gatsby Spas in Plant City (1984-1999), worked for Cypress Gardens Ski Plant making water ski’s (1965-1974) and finally retired in 2015. Willie enjoyed fishing, yardwork, gardening, making sure the pool was clean, eating ice cream, banana pudding, loved his milkshakes and spending time with his family. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother – ES Harvey and sister – Dorothy Bryan. Willie is survived by his loving family, wife of 53 years – Sharon Baker of Auburndale; daughter – Christina Miller of Auburndale; son – John Baker and his wife Jamie of Polk City; 2 sisters – Martha Taylor of Auburn, GA. and Betty Lewis of Bartow; grandson – Aidan Trace Miller of Auburndale; 2 grand dogs & 2 grand cats. Funeral service will be 11:00 am Saturday, September 17^th at Kersey Funeral Home visitation will begin at 10. Interment with Military honors will follow at Auburndale Memorial Park.