News Summary
Edward Harper Baker, affectionately known as Ned, passed away peacefully in Pell City, Alabama, at the age of 63. Surrounded by loved ones, Ned was cherished for his warm heart and devotion to family and friends. Survived by his wife Thalia and twin sister Julia, he had a fulfilling life marked by close friendships and a successful telecommunications career. His legacy will be honored through donations to Baylor High School, reflecting the significant impact of his formative years there.
Pell City, Alabama – Edward Harper Baker, affectionately known as Ned, passed away peacefully at the age of 63 on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. He was surrounded by his beloved wife, Thalia, and his twin sister at the time of his death. Ned’s passing has left a profound impact on his family and friends, who remember him for his warmth, love, and devotion to those around him.
Ned is survived by his wife, Thalia Baker, with whom he shared a cherished marriage of 33 years. He also leaves behind his twin sister, Julia Baker Dooley, and her husband Doug, as well as his older brother Wade Baker and his wife Anne. Additionally, he is survived by his adored nieces: McLain Dooley Maclellan, Shelby Dooley Mullins, Elizabeth Baker, and Stephanie Baker. He was preceded in death by his parents, Josiah (Jody) Baker and Elizabeth (Betty) Baker.
Born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Ned’s life was marked by close friendships and a deep appreciation for family. He began his education at Baylor High School, where he formed a close-knit group of friends, including David Williams, Carlton Davis, Chip Griffin, Ross Clingan, Steven Musick, Brew Yates, Mike Murdock, Paul Sutter, Mark Brown, and Scott Stanford. Following his high school years, Ned attended the University of Georgia, where he was an active member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity.
After graduating from college, Ned launched his career in telecommunications and later relocated to Birmingham, Alabama. It was during this time that he met his future wife, Thalia. The couple moved to Pell City, where they spent countless hours enjoying their lake home on Logan Martin Lake, a place that brought Ned immense joy and fostered many lasting friendships with fellow lake enthusiasts.
Ned’s professional journey included founding his own telecommunications company, Light Cast, after moving to his beloved lake home. Throughout his life, he embraced various hobbies, but none provided him with the happiness that lake life did. His passion for boating, fishing, and community gatherings at the lake has etched a lasting memory in the hearts of those who knew him.
The family wishes to honor Ned’s legacy by inviting friends and community members to remember him fondly. In lieu of flowers, they request that donations be made to Baylor High School in Chattanooga, an institution that played a significant role in shaping Ned’s formative years.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Kilgroe Funeral Home, located at 2219 2nd Ave, Pell City, Alabama 35125. Friends and family are encouraged to join in celebrating Ned’s life and the memories he created during his time on Earth. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, as his legacy of love and friendship continues to inspire those left behind.
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Additional Resources
- Chattanoogan: Edward Ned Harper Baker
- Wikipedia: Telecommunications
- 1819 News: American Idol Premiere
- Google Search: Ned Harper Baker
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Family
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