The Richmond News, Feb. 6, 2026

Connie Baker

Connie Kay Baker, 74, of Richmond passed away Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, at home, surrounded by her loving family. Connie was born April 23, 1951, in Oberlin, Kan., the daughter of Melvin Steven and Ida “Darlene” (Stephens) Petrasek. She was united in marriage to Gary W. Baker of Stet on Jan. 29, 1973. He survives of the home.

Additional survivors include her three sons, Randy (Megan) Baker of Braymer, Garrett (Kara) Baker of Excelsior Springs and Gabe (Donna) Baker of Richmond; and daughter, Kandi Baker of Excelsior Springs. She also is survived by seven grandchildren: Gabriel Baker Jr., Britton Baker, Ember Huffman, Taylor Baker, Brock Baker, Kresslee Baker and Aubrie Baker. In addition, she is survived by two sisters, Pamela Sue Bedore and Beckie Christine Best.

She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Jacqueline Gable.

Connie was raised and educated in Dresden, Kan., and graduated from high school in Jennings, Kan. Following high school, she attended college in Colby, Kan.

Alongside raising her family, Connie worked outside the home, most notably at Hallmark Cards and Cardinal Health in Kansas City.

Connie loved spending time outdoors, tending to her flowers and enjoying sunny days by the pool or at the beach, especially when she was swimming and making memories with her grandchildren.

She had a special fondness for collecting chickens, particularly roosters, and took great joy in decorating her home for every holiday. Connie also enjoyed coloring, a pastime she continued throughout her life; and sewing.

The heart of Connie’s life was her family. As the matriarch, she was a constant presence at her children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events and milestones. Her care, devotion and fun-loving spirit were evident to all who knew her, and she will be remembered for the love she so freely gave and the way she always put her family first.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Connie Baker Memorial Fund. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation will be held 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 8, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond. Inurnment will be held at a later date.

Please share your memories of Connie with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.