Phillip Rodney Baker

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Phillip Rodney Baker, PA, 70, of Austin, passed away Thursday, Sept. 13, 2018.  Phillip was born in Luling to Virgil Baker and Ida Nell Childers Baker. He grew up in San Marcos and Kingsville.  He graduated from Baylor College of Medicine in 1977 and worked in the public sector as a physician assistant until his retirement in 1992.

Phillip was an avid gardener who enjoyed sharing his knowledge with friends and family. He appreciated good food, strong coffee, and fine wine. He enjoyed the art of the presentation when cooking for others, which always made the holidays more special to those that shared it with him.

Phillip was a man who walked the Bodhisattva Path. He selflessly gave his time and resources to quietly helping others, without recognition and often to his own disadvantage. He personally supported and assisted numerous people who needed a second or third chance in life and helped many to find their footing again. He worked tirelessly to reduce the suffering of others and to advocate for those whose voices were no longer being heard. He supported and participated in the practice of silent witness at the Texas Capitol in witness to the consequences that capital punishment has on offenders, victims, and enforcement officials. Phillip lived his life without hesitation and made no apologies for standing up for what he believed to be right. His actions in the support of others leave a legacy to which we may all aspire.

Phillip was a dedicated father and a constant source for advice for his children. We were lucky to have had his guidance and support. He will be deeply missed, but he can rest well knowing that he provided us with love, humor, and respect that built the foundations for our successes.

Phillip R. Baker is survived by his loving family, daughter and son-in-law, Caitlin Lindsay Baker and Aaron Lafary of Cedar Park; son, Jesse Austin Baker and his fiancé Erin McClelland of Austin; step-grandson, Akio Lafary of Cedar Park; sister and brother-in-law, Brenda and Tommy DeWitt of Raymondville; brothers and sister-in-law, Buddy Baker of Kountze, Lennie and Julie Baker of Kountze and Donald Baker of Eugene, Ore. He was preceded in death by his wife Debra Masters Baker, parents and his first wife, Linda Baker. 

Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 23 in the Thompsonville Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Texas Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty by seeking the donate page at www.tcadp.org or the Thompsonville Cemetery Association. Friends may sign the guest book by visiting www.seydlerhillfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Seydler-Hill Funeral Home.

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