James “Jim” Baker

James “Jim” Baker, born July 20, 1947, in Waterville, Maine. He was the son of the late Willard P. and Mary (Hood) Baker. He became a fixture of Gorham, New Hampshire, not long after his birth; a town that would remain his home and an important part of who he was throughout his life.

Jim worked for more than 40 years at the Cascade Mill, retiring after a long career there. But Jim was never defined simply by where he worked. He was happiest around people, especially in the familiar places and among the familiar faces of the town he called home.

Most of all, Jim loved his family. He was a genuinely good man; kind, caring, generous, and always willing to share a laugh, lend a hand, or make someone feel welcome. He was also known for his great big laugh, a joyful sound that could place him out of any crowd. His warmth and wit touched the lives of all who knew him.

He is survived by his dear wife, Judy Baker of Gorham, New Hampshire; his sister, Christine Abrams and her husband, Jeff, of Portsmouth; his brothers-in-law, David MacLean and his wife, Jane, of Waterboro, Maine, and Dean MacLean and his wife, Geraldine, of Berlin, New Hampshire; and a bushel of beloved nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews, all of whom held a special place in his heart.

Jim loved a good joke and even a bad one. He enjoyed good stories, conversation, laughter, and simply being around the people of Gorham.

One of his greatest joys was traveling to Prince Edward Island. He treasured his visits there, both for the much-adored family he went to see and for the unmistakable beauty and way of life found only on the Island of PEI.

Those who knew Jim will remember a man who loved the simple things that make life full: family gathered together, familiar faces, a good joke, a great big laugh, and a trip to an island he truly loved. He will be remembered for his kind heart, generous spirit, and the goodness he brought to the lives of those around him.

Graveside services for family and friends will be held on Saturday, September 26th, 2026 at 10:00 am in the Lary Cemetery, Smith Street, Gorham, NH.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Jim’s memory to North Country Home Health and Hospice Agency, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or Shriners Children’s

Online guestbook at www.bryantfuneralhome.net.