Butch Baker, age 69 of Malvern, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 at his home.  He was born in Malvern on December 29, 1954 to the late Kermit N. Baker and Marie Hix Baker.  Reared and receiving his early education in Malvern, he graduated Malvern High School with the class of 1974.  He was a standout football player while at MHS, and was proud to be a Leopard.  He served as co-captain of the State Allstar Football Team in 1974.  He attended the University of Arkansas where he became a Razorback and played under Coach Frank Broyles during his last season as head coach.  He had a varied working career, having run a liquor store, and for many years was a local bail bondsman.  Butch was a member of St. Paul United Methodist Church.  He was the husband of Susan Ripley Baker, to whom he was married on May 27, 1976 in Conway.

Butch was also preceded in death by his son, Brett Tyler Baker; his sister, Betty Baker O'Neal; and a nephew, Craig O'Neal.

He is survived by his wife, Susan; his son, Nathan Baker of Conway; grandson, Gabe Baker; a special cousin, Debbie Kilcrease of Poyen; and numerous other cousins and family members.

His funeral will be held on Friday afternoon, November 15, 2024, at 2:00, in the chapel of J. A. Funk Funeral Home.

A visitation will precede the service, beginning at 1:00.

Honorary pallbearers will be Coach David Alpe, Frank McClure, Daryl Martin, Louis Lloyd, and all of Butch's former teammates and friends.

Memorials are requested to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis; or to the Malvern High School Athletic Department.

Online condolences may be sent via jafunkfuneralhome.com.