Gilford---Long-time Lakes Region resident since 1967, Elizabeth “Betty” Ann Baker of Bacon Drive, Gilford passed away at LRGH on Tuesday, October 27, 2015 after a long and happy life.
Born on October 17, 1928 in West Boylston, MA as Elizabeth Ann Gaffney and celebrating her 87th birthday just a few weeks ago, Elizabeth was a very energetic woman pursuing many careers and businesses in Massachusetts, Florida and N.H. throughout her lifetime. Her first son Jay A. Coffin was born in 1949 with (now deceased) husband James A. Coffin. Remarrying Edward C. Walsh, Jay changed his name to Jay Edward Walsh. Together Elizabeth and Edward owned and operated many businesses in Massachusetts including a restaurant and servicestation. Moving to New Smyrna Beach, FL they again owned a restaurant and Elizabeth had two more children Edward and Margaret. Moving to Meredith in 1967 Elizabeth worked at Hart’s Turkey Farm and as the Director of the Inter-Lakes School Lunch program. Losing her husband Edward Walsh to cancer, Elizabeth married Samuel P. Baker Sr. in 1975, who had also lost his wife. A blended family was born with four Baker children and three Walsh children as well as raising their grandson Adam Baker later in life. Together Sam and Elizabeth owned and operated a restaurant and cottages on Weirs Boulevard, and built, expanded and ran the Meredith Brick Manor elderly campus on Parade Road. Throughout her time as a business owner, Elizabeth was an active Republican, hosting many important political visits to the Meredith Brick Manor including Barbara Bush. Elizabeth was also a strong supporter and friend of Executive Councilman Ray Burton. Working tirelessly throughout her life, Elizabeth continued working in the Lakes Region in various areas until well into her late 70’s. Her work ethic was amazing. During her lifetime she was able to travel to Europe, Hawaii, California, and many trips and adventures to Florida and owned a home in Citrus Hills, FL for several years.
Elizabeth enjoyed living these past five years at the Village Knoll’s community, tending to her garden, bird watching, getting to know her neighbors, going to church, thrift shopping, attending various dinners and programs, political events, the Hands Across the Table, and the Friendship Club. A devoted Christian woman Elizabeth was active in several churches in the area over the past forty-eight years. She loved animals particularly cats and small dogs. She enjoyed attending her grandchildren’s dance recitals, birthday parties, graduations and special events.
Elizabeth was predeceased by her husband Edward Walsh, husband Samuel P. Baker Sr., her son Adam Baker and her parents John and Edna and brother John Gaffney.
Elizabeth is survived by her seven children, twenty-two grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren, many of whom were with her throughout her sickness.
A small family service was held on Friday, October 30, 2015 at Wilkinson-Beane Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held at a later date at the Village Cemetery in Meredith, NH.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Elizabeth’s name to Hands Across the Table, P.O. Box 6553, Laconia, NH 03247 or to the N.H. Humane Society, 1305 Meredith Center Road, Laconia, NH 03246.