Veronica “Tootsie” Baker, 83, of Iaeger, WV, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2026. She was born September 17, 1942, in Lex, WV, to the late Burl and Mable Payne Stanley.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her former husband, Hershel Baker; brothers James “Jimmy”, Dennis “DC,” Oliver “Big O”, Burl Jr. “Junior”, and Calvin Coolidge Stanley; and sisters Joan Stanley, and Katherine “Kat” Addair. She is survived by her children: Hershel “J.R.” Baker, Jr. (Jimmie) of Scott Depot, Nicholas “Nick” Baker (Erica) of Bridgeport, and Monica McBryde (companion Thomas Moore) of Hurricane.
She was a proud Granny “Ghee” to her Magnificent Seven grandchildren: Corbin McBryde, Elise Baker, Tucker McBryde, Oliver Baker, Claire McBryde, Jordan Baker, and Millie Baker. Also surviving are her sister and best friend, Cricket Donnelly (the late Edgar Brant and late Johnny Donnelly); brothers Forrest “Buster” (Berniece) and Roger (Sherry) Stanley; sister-in-law Johnnie Mae Stanley (the late Jimmy); and many, many beloved nieces, nephews, family members and friends.
Tootsie was known for her strength, humor, and loving heart. She enjoyed Yahtzee, card games, puzzles, and never traveled without her Sudoku book. After raising her family, she worked for many years at Pioneer Community Bank in Iaeger, WV. Her greatest pride was her family, especially her children and grandchildren, whom she loved deeply. Tootsie’s laugh and smile are surely to be missed by all who were blessed to know and love her. A celebration of Tootsie’s life will be held on a later date.
Cards can be mailed to J.R. at 1672 Scott Depot Rd. Scott Depot, WV 25560. A fund has been established in memory of Tootsie to help with lung cancer screening costs. In place of flowers, contributions may be made to the United Health Foundation and mailed to 327 Medical Park Drive, Bridgeport, WV 26330.
