Johnnie Caswell Baker died March 26, 2017 at his home. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Estelle Flowers Baker and children, Allison Baker Coggins and her husband, Steve, and Johnnie Caswell Baker, Jr. (Jay) and wife Alice. Johnnie is also survived by his grandchildren: William Neal Coggins, Catherine Estelle Coggins, Sarah English Westbrook Coggins, Benjamin Davis Coggins, Elizabeth Flowers Baker and Carolyn Westbrook Baker. He is survived by his sisters Judie Hockman and Barbara Wright. Born in Stantonsburg, NC on March 25, 1938, he was the son of Johnnie Cleveland Baker and Mamie Whitley. After graduating from Charles L. Coon High School, he served his country in the United States Air Force. Johnnie graduated from Atlantic Christian (Barton) College in Wilson, NC where he majored in math and science. Over the course of his professional career, Johnnie started many businesses including Industrial Maintenance Corporation, Environmental Chemists, The Bridge Tender Restaurant, The Bridge Tender Marina, The Crest Fitness Club and The Fish House Grill. A lover of the outdoors, Johnnie was a true outdoorsman whether it was hunting, fishing or spending time on his front porch. He was the proud owner of several Bertram boats as well. Many of his best memories were from his time spent in the Gulf Stream catching billfish with good friends and family. Johnnie served as a deacon and elder at the Little Chapel on the Boardwalk. He was a former member of the Board of Trustees at Cape Fear Academy and Barton College and a member of the Board of First Citizens Bank in Wilmington. He was a master mason at St. John's Masonic Lodge #1 in Wilmington. A celebration of Johnnie's life will be held at The Little Chapel on the Boardwalk, Wrightsville Beach, on Wednesday, March 29 at 3:00 pm. Reception to follow in the fellowship hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Barton College, or The Little Chapel on the Boardwalk. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.andrewsmortuary.com.

Published in the Wilmington Star-News on Mar. 28, 2017