Betty J. Baker

Betty Jean Baker, affectionately known as Ms. B, Betty Boop, and to most simply Ms. Betty, peacefully departed this life on October 24, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina, surrounded by her loving family. She was 84 years old. She now joins her beloved siblings Chuck, Lilly, William, Mary, and Alice Howard (John). Along with her precious grandchildren, Tanisha Jamison and Christian Baker. 

Born on December 14, 1940, in Chesterfield County, Jefferson, South Carolina, Betty was raised by her mother, Josephine Baker and her father, Mack Baker in a close-knit family grounded in love, faith, and hard work. After completing a year of college, she moved to New York City, where she met her former husband, Arthur Jennings, and lifelong friend. Together, they shared three children Arthur Baker (Belinda), Lori Massey (Charles), and Antonio Jennings (LaShon).

Ms. Betty spent 25 dedicated years working at Krispy Kreme, where she was admired for her strong work ethic, warm personality, and ability to make everyone around her smile. Her coworkers and customers alike adored her humour, kindness, and down-to-earth spirit. A gifted cook and nurturer at heart, Ms. Betty’s kitchen was always filled with laughter and love. She was famous for her breakfasts and for never letting anyone leave her home hungry. Her food brought people together, creating memories that her family and friends will cherish forever.

Known for her sharp wit, humour, and generous heart, Ms. Betty was truly the glue that held her family together — the matriarch and “top of the food chain.” In her later years, she was lovingly cared for by her granddaughter, Sabrina Baker (David), and great-granddaughter, Amoni Baker, who was one of the last children she helped raise. Ms. Betty leaves behind her three children, 9 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and 2 greatgreat-grandchildren, along with her Brother, Johnny Baker(Lois) who will continue to honour her memory.

She was especially proud of her loving grandchildren: James Baker(Shauntai), Meshon Maxwell, Bruce Maxwell, Shakeala Baker, Demario Baker(Tia), Amelia Baker, Naudia Baker, and AJ Jennings JR. Her joy continued through her wonderful great-grandchildren: James Baker, Malasyia Baker, Kimora Baker, Jaylen Baker, Karmen Baker, Elayah-Marie Horton, Kyland Baker, and Zyaira Hoover, and Zymir Grier. And her legacy lives on through her precious great-great-grandchildren: Azari Simmons and Ro’zier Alexander.