Zealon "Zeke" Franklin Baker

NASHVILLE – Zealon “Zeke” Franklin Baker, age 86, passed away on Tuesday, August 25, 2026.  Born in Duplin County, NC on May 23, 1940, he was the son of the late Lawton Baker and Effie Griffin Baker.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Roxie Pauline Gillespie Baker; his brother, Weaver Ward Baker; and his sister, Esther “Babydoll” Baker Matthews.

A man of strong faith, Zeke was a long-time member of Peoples Fellowship Baptist Church and loved his church family.  He retired from ABFS Freight after 25 years of dedicated service.  In his spare time Zeke was an avid gardener, a “Jack of all trades” many would say and was a faithful and diehard fan of the Atlanta Braves and Tar Heel Basketball.  A devoted and loving father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle, and good friend to many, Zeke will be deeply missed and never forgotten.

Zeke is survived by his son, Christophey “Chris” Franklin Baker (Carolyn); his grandchildren, Casey Baker (Lacey) and Cale Baker (Faith); his great grandchildren, Eleanor “Ellie” Baker, Marli Baker, Emma Baker, and Boone Baker; his brother, Henry Millard Baker; his sisters, Jennifer Kay Baker Kennedy, JoAnn Baker Jones; and many nephews, nieces, extended family members, and good friends.

A Funeral Service to celebrate Zeke’s life will be held on Friday, August 28, 2026, at 11:00 AM in the Chapel of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Ave., Rocky Mount, NC 27804 with Pastor Dave Grogan officiating.  Visitation with the family will be from 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM prior to the service in the Atrium of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.  You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.