Rev. Kenneth “Kenny” Walton Baker, 73, of Morganton, NC, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, September 19, 2026.
Born in Burke County, NC on October 17, 1952, he was the son of the late Ernest Arch Baker and Rachel Whisnant Baker.
Rev. Baker was currently serving as pastor of Lakeview Baptist Church in Valdese and had previously pastored at North Morganton Baptist Church, Liberty Baptist Church in Candler, and Pineola Baptist Church. He was also a former associate pastor at El Bethel Baptist Church.
Kenny enjoyed mowing grass for everyone and taking walks. He also enjoyed sports, especially anything involving his grandchildren. His true loves in life were his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and his beloved family to whom he was devoted.
Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Mary Sue Hamrick Baker; children, Kacee Baker Stroupe and husband, Doug, and Adam Walton Baker and wife, Samantha; grandchildren, Kerrigan Stroupe Langley and husband, Dawson, Kennedy Stroupe, Peyton Baker, Ambria Baker, Savia Baker, and Maverick Baker; brother, Leonard E. Baker; and several extended family members.
In addition to his parents, Rev. Baker was preceded in death by his first wife, Christy “Robin” Baker; and a sister-in-law, Freida Baker.
The family will receive friends from 1 to 3 p.m., Sunday, September 27, 2026 at Lakeview Baptist Church. The funeral will be held at 3 p.m. in the church with Rev. Ron Burgett and Rev. David Bean officiating. Burial will follow in Grandview Baptist Church Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Lakeview Baptist Church, 4744 Lakeview Acres Road, Valdese, NC 28690 or to Fruitland Baptist Bible College, 1455 Gilliam Road, Hendersonville, NC 28792.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Deepest sympathies and condolences to the family. Mom and I share fond memories of Kenny, and he will be missed. I remember back years ago when he worked for my Dad as a surveyor, and he thought the world of Kenny. Prayers for comfort and peace.
Such a sweet man who loved God and loved people. Praying for comfort now and in the coming days for all the family. Especially "sweet Sue" as he so loving called her. My husband Doug and I met Kenny and Sue at Cornerstone. Doug thought so much of Kenny. Called him a class act. Love and prayers. Rhonda
So sorry to hear about Kenny. I have always had great respect for him and his family. Your family will remain in my thoughts and prayers. Donna Benner
Kenny was an amazing man. He became my granddaughter Samantha's father she never had. He fiercely loved the grandchildren. Im forever grateful to him. He will never be forgotten. Kenny I never told you but thank you for being there for our family! Darlene
We are so sorry to hear of Kenny's passing. We all loved him very much. He was a wonderful person and it was a blessing to have him as the Pastor that baptized us at Liberty. He was so kind to come back to Candler to officiate Simon's wedding. When he preached it was obvious he had a true calling. We find comfort in the knowledge we will see him again when we reach our Heavenly Home.
We are so saddened about Kenny’s passing. He is my cousin and he was always the kindest person for as long as I can remember. He was the pastor that married us 40 years ago and will always hold a special place in our hearts. A true man of God. You will be missed by many……rest well Kenny.
So sorry Miss Sue. My prayers c are with you.
You were the best pawpaw ever. Say hi to Jesus for me.
Kenny was without a doubt one of the finest men I have had the privilege to know and be in kinship. He was the most honorable and devoted man to his family and primarily to the Lord Jesus Christ. The world lost a guiding light and a shining star. May he rest in peace.