Born on Aug. 17, 1947, he was a son of the late Lougene Petty Baker and Roy William Baker.

James served in the U.S. Army where he was awarded the National Defense Service medal, two Oversea Service bars, a Vietnam Medal with one Bronze Service Star. Other accomplishments include a sharpshooter qualification badge with rifle bar, marksman qualification badge with pistol and machinegun bars and Republic of Vietnam Campaign medal.

Surviving are his wife, Betty Chittum Baker; stepchildren, Kelly Miller (Ronnie) and Jeff Swisher; step-grandchildren, Alyssa Swisher, Wade Swisher, Chloe DeCoster (Stephen), and Christian Miller; and sister, Billie Jean Horn.

A celebration of life will be at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Tunnels to Towers, 2361 Hylan Blvd., Staten Island, NY 10306.

Arrangements are by Harrison Funeral Home & Crematory.

NG