Ottis Merle Baker, TSgt USAFRet., age 81, of Xenia, passed away Thursday, April 24, 2025 at his residence surrounded by his loving family. He was born October 4, 1943 in Gadsden, Alabama, the son of Dorothy (Lackey) Baker Thornton and Ottis William Baker. He was preceded in death by his parents, his loving wife Williard Baker; sister: Shirley Faye Lolies and granddaughter: Evelyn Baker.

He is survived by his children: Tammy (Rick) Oberlin, Melinda Daniele, Amy Baker (Rudy Lanman), and Angel Baker, all of Xenia; and Leo (Sarah) Baker of Oklahoma; 12 surviving grandchildren: Tiffany, Brandon (Mindy) and Trisha Faulkner, Amber Cochran-Scandrick (Darryl), Chase (Chelsea) Baker, Lacee (Samantha) Fuller, Noah Brannon, Aaron Robbins, Mariah Smith (Brandon Lewis), Joshua and Roman Baker and Lydia Baker; and all of Papaw's great grandbabies: Kailee, Peyton, Blayden, Autumn, Eli, Gage, Heaven, Jenisus, Alaysia, Jace, Laylah, Khloe, Milo, Hudson, and Baby Lewis expected October 2025; brothers: William "Bill" (Charlotte) Baker; Johnny (Janice) Baker and Doris (Jackie) Mead; brother-in-law: Marvin Lolies; and numerous nieces and nephews.  He had been a loving parent to numerous foster children throughout the United States, providing them with a safe and loving environment to live. He lovingly maintained his Papaw status with Jace and Savannah Hadler.

Merle graduated from Cullman High School and joined the US Air Force. He proudly served his country for 21 years, which allowed him to travel the world. He was a life-long University of Alabama Crimson Tide fan. Most importantly, Merle was dedicated to his family and loved spending time with them.

His life will be celebrated privately.