Ms. Tonjia Baker

Ms. Tonjia Baker, age 64, transitioned on June 10, 2026, in Gainesville, FL. With hearts full of gratitude for a life well lived, we celebrate the life and legacy of Ms. Tonjia Elizabeth Baker, who peacefully entered eternal rest on June 10, 2026, in Gainesville, Florida, at the age of 64. Tonjia was born on July 1, 1961, to Henry Turner Baker Jr. and Geraldine Anna Baker (née Bentley). She spent her early years in Miami, Florida, where she attended Dade County Public Schools and developed the strong values, determination, and caring spirit that would define her life. In 1978, she moved with her family to Gainesville, Florida, where she completed her senior year at Eastside High School at the age of 16. A woman who valued education and personal growth, Tonjia earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Florida, pursued graduate studies at the University of Texas at Tyler, and later received a Master of Arts in Education from the University of Arizona Global Campus. Her commitment to learning reflected her belief in the power of education to transform lives. For more than four decades, Tonjia devoted herself to the well-being of children and families. Her service began as a Guardian ad Litem and later expanded when she became the owner of A Child's Point of View, Inc., a preschool serving the Micanopy and Gainesville communities, where she nurtured and inspired young minds. Her passion for children and families continued throughout her career, culminating in her role as a Regional Director for Episcopal Children's Services. Through her leadership, compassion, and dedication, she touched countless lives and left an enduring legacy in her community. Tonjia's greatest joys were found in her faith, her family, and her service to others. A devoted Christian, she lived her life with grace, kindness, and a generous heart. She was a source of encouragement, wisdom, and love to all who knew her. Her warm smile, caring spirit, and unwavering faith will continue to inspire those blessed to have shared in her journey. Her life was a testament to servant leadership, and she found great fulfillment in uplifting others and helping them reach their fullest potential. She was preceded in death by her sister, Juleen Williams. She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories to be treasured by her loving parents; her sisters, Kathy Williams (David), Mable Baker, Olivia Randolph, and Mimi Lassiter; her brothers, Henry L. Baker and Turner Baker; her special cousin, Wilma Lockey (Michael); and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, dear friends, colleagues, and all whose lives were enriched by her presence. Though she will be deeply missed, we rejoice in the blessing of her life and the lasting impact she made on so many hearts. Public Visitation and Viewing for Ms. Baker will be Friday, June 19, 2026 from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM in the Chestnut Memorial Chapel, 18 NW 8th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32601. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 10:00 AM at Compassionate Outreach Ministries, 320 SE 43rd Street, Gainesville, FL 32641. Interment will follow immediately in Evergreen Cemetery, 401 SE 21st Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32641. Resolutions may be emailed to wecare@chestnutfh.com before 5:00 PM on June 19, 2026. Floral Arrangements can be ordered on this website below or delivered to Chestnut Funeral Home, 18 NW 8th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32601. "A CHESTNUT SERVICE"

Tributes

Ms. Tonjia Baker

July 1, 1961 - June 10, 2026