Burley Eugene Baker

Burley Eugene Baker, 74, of Camp Creek, Kentucky, passed away on August 8, 2026. He was born on July 17, 1952, at Mt. Mary Hospital in Hazard, Kentucky, to Malcolm Baker and Mary Young Baker.

Eugene proudly and honorably served his country in the United States Army. For the majority of his adult life, he worked on the farm at Camp Creek, a place he loved deeply and took great pride in. The farm was more than a place of work to Eugene; it was a place that held a special place in his heart. He was truly an artist with a weed eater, taking great pride in caring for the land and making it look its best.

Eugene had a true servant’s heart. He was a valuable and vital part of the lives of his family and friends, always willing to help and be there for those he loved. His kindness, generosity, and willingness to serve others reflected the strong faith he carried throughout his life.

Eugene had a deep faith in God and loved attending worship services. He enjoyed fishing and reading and was a great fan of the Harry Potter series.

Above all, Eugene cherished his family. He delighted in spending time with those he loved and had a particularly special bond with his grandson, James Eugene Carson Hayes, who held a very special place in his heart.

Eugene devoted his life to loving and caring for his wife, Melanie Jane Hayes Baker. Throughout their life together, he was by her side, caring for her and sharing a bond built on love, devotion, and companionship. Melanie was deeply loved by Eugene and held a very special place in his heart.

Eugene also shared a special friendship with George Wayne Patterson. Their friendship was a meaningful part of Eugene’s life, and Wayne held a special place among those Eugene cherished.

Eugene is survived by his beloved wife, Melanie Jane Hayes Baker; his children, James Warren Hayes and Cecily Chenoa Hayes Mobley; and his grandchildren, James Eugene Carson Hayes and his wife, Rachel; Kannan Alijah Sebastian Hayes; Eleanore Piper Jane Hayes; Taiylor Juduan Hayes; Tessa Jane Hayes; and Thomas James Edward Hayes.

He is also survived by his siblings, Don Baker, Betty Sue Baker Hoskins, Junior Baker, and Russell Baker, as well as a host of relatives and friends who loved him dearly and whose lives were touched by his kindness, generosity, and servant’s heart.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Malcolm Baker and Mary Young Baker; and his siblings, Ella May Baker Smith, James Baker, Jerry Baker, and Billy Ray Baker.

Eugene was well loved. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. His love for his family, his faith in God, his devotion to Melanie, his love for the farm, and the memories he created with those around him will remain in the hearts of those who knew and cherished him.

While on earth, Eugene lived among his people, loving and caring for those around him. Now, he has been gathered to his people who have gone before him, where he rests in the peace of God’s eternal care.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Funeral Services

Walker Funeral Home Hyden, Kentucky

Visitation: Monday, August 17, 2026, beginning at 10:00 a.m. 

Funeral Service: Monday, August 17, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. with Tommy Watkins, Jamie Hayes and Carson Hayes officiating. 

*Burial will follow at the Kentucky Veteran's Cemetery South East, Hyden, Ky. with full military rites performed by the Leslie Co. DAV Chapter #133*