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Leslie H. Baker - Southport

Leslie H. Baker of Southport passed away suddenly in his home on April 24, 2012 at the age of 77.

He was born in Duxbury, MA, on December 24th, 1934 to Virginia (Holden) Baker and James Baker of Duxbury, MA. He is survived by two sisters Carol Parr of Andover, MA and Sandra Trapp of Brockton, MA along with his Great Uncle Raymond Baker of Dorchester, MA and many nieces, nephews and friends who adored him. He was predeceased by his brother’s James, Robert, Wayne and Edward Baker all from the Massachusetts area.

Les was born and schooled in Massachusetts but it is not where his heart was. In the 1960’s he volunteered for the United States Army and served the majority of his time in Iceland. In 1962 he was discharged from the Army but remained a member of the Standby Reserve. Shortly thereafter he was drawn to Southport, NC and remained there for the remainder of his life. He settled in on West Bay Street in 1966 and just three years later purchased land in town. He worked in construction for a few years before joining the International Longshoremen’s Association in 1968 and served as their Secretary for several years. He retired from the ILA Local 1838 in 1997 but continued to work through the Checkers Union and as a Stevedore through the NC Shipping Association until 2007. He loved his union brothers and they him. Members have shared stories of how he always had a truck full of drinks and snacks for the workers on the docks. Les was best known for his generosity, kind heart, and love of animals. He was loved by all. He lived his life to help others and donated regularly to many local charities. He enjoyed watching sports and never lost his love of the Boston Red Sox.

The family of Les Baker wishes to thank the people of Southport for their overwhelming show of support during this difficult time. His friends, neighbors and union brothers provided the strength and assistance we needed to move forward.

A celebration of life gathering will be held at the ILA Local 1838 Union Hall, 211 W. 10th Street in Southport on Monday, May 14 at 7:00 pm. All are welcome to attend.

Private family services were performed by Peacock-Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service.

Donations in his honor can be mailed to the Southport Brunswick County Habitat for Humanity, 4170 Long Beach Road, Southport NC 28461.

You may offer online condolences at www.peacocknewnamwhite.com.

You may send flowers at www.FTD.com or by calling 877-282-4098.

Peacock-Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service, Southport