Susan Elizabeth Baker, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, mentor, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2026, surrounded by the family she cherished most and her faithful Chihuahua, Tiny.
Susan was born on August 14, 1945, in McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, to Harold Englert and Gloria Schibner Englert. She grew up alongside her sister, Nancy, and carried throughout her life the values of hard work, compassion, and devotion to family.
In 1969, Susan married the love of her life, Gerald “Jerry” Baker, in McKees Rocks. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure, raising three children: Bernard “Bernie” Baker, Gerald “Jerry” Baker, and Susan (Baker) Taylor.
In 1982, Susan and Jerry moved their family from Pennsylvania to Lone Jack, Missouri, where they embraced rural life. Their home quickly became a place filled with horses, cows, chickens, a family dog, and countless memories. Susan loved the simple joys of country living and creating a home where family always came first.
As her children grew older, Susan entered the workforce at Shoney’s, beginning on the salad bar. Her exceptional work ethic, leadership, and genuine care for others quickly earned her promotions to management. Throughout her years at Shoney’s, she received multiple leadership awards and became affectionately known as “Mama Susan” to the many young people she mentored.
After many successful years in the restaurant business, Susan transitioned into healthcare, serving as a staffing coordinator at Research Medical Center and later Lee’s Summit Medical Center. She became known for her kindness, dependability, and unwavering support of nurses and staff. Her dedication was recognized when she was named Employee of the Year before retiring from Lee’s Summit Medical Center.
Though Susan enjoyed remarkable professional success, nothing brought her more pride than her children and the families they built. She treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and delighted in watching her family grow through the generations.
Susan was preceded in death by her parents, Harold Englert and Gloria Schibner Englert; her beloved husband, Gerald “Jerry” Baker; and her sister, Nancy Rustic.
She leaves behind her children; Bernard “Bernie” Baker (Paula), Gerald “Jerry” Baker (Paige), and Susan (Baker) Taylor (Matt); her grandchildren: Logan Taylor, Jake Taylor, Jesse Baker (Amber), Casey (Baker) Tribble (Paul), Carley Baker, Cody Baker, Jon Thompson (Amanda), Kelli Cassidy, great-grandchildren, and countless friends and coworkers whose lives were enriched by her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering love.
Susan’s legacy lives on in the family she loved and the many lives she touched. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
“A life measured not by accomplishments alone, but by the love shared, the people uplifted, and the family cherished”
Obituary submitted by the family.
Arrangements by Royer Funeral Home in Oak Grove, Missouri.