Birth Date: 11/08/1977
Deceased Date: 10/22/2023
Bradley Evans Baker was a beloved and loving son, brother, uncle, and friend. He left this world suddenly on October 22, 2023 at age 45. He was born to Kenneth Wayne Baker and Cathy Sue Evans Truitt on November 8th, 1977. Brad came into this world fighting and required several life-saving operations as an infant.
Bradley attended Four Oaks Elementary and Four Oaks Middle School. As an Honors student, he played on the tennis team. He often hung out with his grandparents, fished at Granny Ruby’s, played golf with his buddies, and waterskied with his cousins at Lake Gaston.
On August 13th, 1994, Walter Ventus Truitt Jr. became his stepfather and friend. Bradley also inherited three stepbrothers: Jeff, Kendall, and Brian.
After graduating from South Johnston High, Brad proudly served in the US Air Force from 2000-2004, including an overseas tour supporting the war in Iraq.
Unassuming, and with a quick wit, Brad’s kind demeanor and quiet strength made him a cherished friend to all. He was the first one whom others called for help. MoonRunners Saloon was one of his favorite hangouts; he never met a stranger. Bradley started working at Cary Florist and often helped out in his off-hours. His character and work ethic led to his promotion as Manager.
Bradley was nearly finished with his Business Analytics Bachelor’s degree from Western Governor’s University.
Brad enjoyed cooking and grilling, often creating delicious meals for his family. Brad also loved grocery shopping, pet sitting, and completing domestic tasks for his parents and loved ones.
To many, Brad was a rock to which they clung when they were afraid. Several of his friends said he talked them out of some dark times. Excruciating and devastating are not big enough words to describe our loss.
Brad is survived by people who loved him: his parents, Cathy and Walter Truitt; Ken Baker and his partner Betty Ellen Dixon; his brother, Brett; his nephews Jonathan and Kilian; his stepbrothers Jeff, Kendall, and Brian Truitt; his sisters-of-the-heart Somer and Kristy; his beloved dog, Jake; his cat, Rusty; many step-nieces and step-nephews; and many more loved ones and friends.
Brad’s funeral service will be held on October 29th at 2pm at Bryan-Lee Funeral Home in Garner, NC. A viewing will be held immediately prior from 12-2pm. Following the service, Bradley will be buried beside his beloved grandparents, Joseph and Elsie Evans, at Barbour’s Chapel Church Graveyard in Four Oaks, NC.
MoonRunners Saloon will hold a celebration of life on November 12th from 2-5pm.
