Kenneth David Baker

Kenneth David Baker of the Sandy Dam Community in Walterboro, South Carolina, passed away suddenly on March 1, 2026, after a prolonged battle with throat cancer at MUSC. He was 81. Born on July 31, 1944, in Charleston, he was the son of the late Marion Frederick Baker, Sr. and Emmaline Price Baker. He was the grandson of the late Jesse David Baker, Sr. and Elizabeth Slemons Baker of Decatur, Georgia, and Kenneth Elwell Price and Emmie Crosby Price of Sandy Dam. He was predeceased by his wife, Vivian, in September 2025, and by an older brother Marion, Jr. in 2009.

Kenneth was married to his beloved wife, Vivian, for 65 years, a partnership that stood as a testament to enduring love and companionship. Together they opened Baker Shrimp 30 years ago beside their home. Initially selling their harvest of shrimp caught on their boats the “Wildfire," "Vivian B.," and finally the "Playboy.” They eventually carried local crabs, oysters, and a wide variety of seafood. Kenneth had previously been a mechanic, carpenter, welder, heavy equipment operator, crabber, farmer, and commercial fisherman.

Kenneth lived a life filled with laughter, generosity, and a love for the simple joys that made every day worthwhile. Those who knew him best will remember his quick wit and playful teasing remarks, his knack for turning even ordinary moments into stories worth retelling. Kenneth was rarely without a smile or a good joke, and his warmth touched everyone he met.

An outdoorsman at heart, he found peace and purpose in nature. Whether he was deer hunting at dawn, tending to his garden, or casting a net on quiet waters, Kenneth cherished time spent outdoors. He also had a deep love for shrimping and cooking, earning him the affectionate reputation of being both a great shrimp boat captain and a talented chef.

Kenneth is survived by his sons, Kenny Baker (Debi) of Lehigh Acres, Florida, and Chris Baker (Angie) of Walterboro; grandchildren include Angela, Jordan, Justin, Christa, Shelby and Bella; and great-grandchildren, Paisleigh, Lacie, and Lexie. He also is survived by his brother, John Mark Baker (Teresa) of Anderson, South Carolina; along with nieces, nephews, and many friends. He also left behind, Brandi, his loyal Rottweiler. We will all carry forward countless memories of shared laughter and family gatherings.

A service to celebrate Kenneth’s life will be held 2 o’clock, Friday afternoon, March 6, 2026, at The Brice Herndon Funeral Chapel, Walterboro. The Reverend Dr. David Anderson officiating. Interment will follow in Green Pond Baptist Church Cemetery, 12295 Green Pond Highway, Green Pond, South Carolina. Though Kenneth was not a deeply religious man, his life reflected the best kind of faith—one rooted in kindness, generosity, and love for others.

The family will receive friends during a time of visitation Friday from 1 o’clock until the hour of service.

ARANGEMENTS BY: THE BRICE W. HERNDON AND SONS FUNERAL HOMES AND CREMATORY, WALTERBORO CHAPEL, 1193 Bells Highway, Walterboro. 843.538.5408. Visit the registry online at: www.briceherndonfuneralhome.com.