Shelby Jean (Dexter) Baker

BAKER, SHELBY J. (née Dexter), was born on July 10, 1938, in Pontiac, Michigan, to Bruce and Lucille Dexter. Shelby lived a full and spirited life, marked by humor, creativity, and a strong will that never went unnoticed.

Shelby was the beloved wife of the late Orville L. Baker; devoted mother of Barbara (Mark) Soffin and Anita (Mathew) Hickey; cherished grandmother of Matthew  (Alicia) Bebout, Joshua (Johanna) Bebout, Kyle (Tiffany) Soffin, Trevor (Maureen) Soffin, Connor Hickey, and Jacob Hickey; loving great-grandmother of Jaden Bebout, Jaxen Bebout, Lilliana Bebout, Liam Bebout, Janek Bebout, Julen Bebout, Brody Holcomb, and Asher Soffin. She was the dear sister of Carol (David) Hahn. Shelby was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Bruce Dexter II, and his wife, Dianne. She is also lovingly remembered by her nieces Amy Hahn and Bethany Hahn; and her nephew Jeffrey (Shannon) Dexter and his children Allyssa (Tyler) and Andrew.

Shelby worked for many years at Transign Industries, where her strong work ethic matched her independent spirit. Outside of work, she was active and competitive—bowling most of her life and playing softball in her earlier years. A natural artist, Shelby was rarely without a sketchbook, always ready to draw, doodle, or capture the moment on paper. She also enjoyed playing cards and spending time with family and friends.

Known for her unmistakable sense of humor, Shelby loved to draw attention and keep people laughing. She was fun-loving, a bit of a prankster, and never afraid to speak her mind. Strong-willed with a stubborn and sarcastic streak, Shelby lived life on her own terms—and those who knew her wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.

She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for her laughter, creativity, and unforgettable personality. Funeral service will be held Monday, December 29, 2025 at 11 AM at COATS FUNERAL HOME-WATERFORD. Family will receive friends Sunday 3 to 8 PM. To post a tribute, visit www.CoatsFuneralHome.com.

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