Sunrise: March 25, 1950

Clarence Gregory Baker of Meriden, CT passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. He was born on March 25, 1950 to the late Clarence Baker Jr. and Jean Elmendorf Baker. Clarence resided in New Britain until moving to Meriden in 1984.

Clarence graduated from New Britain High School in 1968. He proudly served in the United States Marine Corps. He reached the rank of Lance Corporal and served in Vietnam, where he was wounded in combat. He received an honorable discharge and a Purple Heart in 1970. Following his service, he began a 45-year career at H.L. Moore Drug Exchange (later McKesson), where he eventually retired.

Clarence was well known for his love of Jazz and R&B, traveling with his wife Jacqui, and spending time with his loved ones. He was a passionate fan of the Yankees, Giants, and UConn Women’s basketball team. His commitment to his community was evident through his years of coaching the Meriden Raiders Pop Warner football team (1979–1996) and the Meriden Inner City softball team, where he was a beloved figure to many children and parents. He also found great joy in cooking, grilling, and dancing.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 39 years (and partner for 42), Jacqui (Lucy) Baker; his sister Angelic (Kemry) Israel; his daughter Beatrice (Lee) Hansen; four Godchildren, Mia Martinez, Jovita Bowen, Tanahe Nelms, and Darryl Thompson Jr.; his nephew Kemry (Kathy) Israel Jr.; and his niece Monique Israel (Mayo). Greg will be deeply missed by his brothers-in-law Joseph (Shirley) Johnson and Timothy (Tonya) Johnson; and sister-in-law Lisa Johnson, along with a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, June 26, 2026 at 11 AM at Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home of Berlin, 111 Chamberlain Hwy., Kensington. Burial with military honors will be in Fairview Cemetery. A calling hour will be held from 10 AM until the time of the service. 

Sunset: June 17, 2026