Obituary: Ruth Anne Baker
Bath resident Ruth Baker, a lifelong community champion, dies at 73
Bath, Maine – The town of Bath lost one of its most beloved residents when Ruth Anne Baker passed away on September 16, 2026, at the age of 73. Born in Lowell, Massachusetts, in 1953, Baker moved to Maine in 1975 and made the coastal town her home for more than five decades.
Baker’s professional life was as varied as it was vibrant. She began her career as a graphic designer and later ventured into real estate, where she helped clients find homes that matched their dreams. Her entrepreneurial spirit then led her to the culinary world: she owned and operated several restaurants, crafted elegant menus as a head chef, and even invented a playful title for her wait staff—“waitron”—reflecting her welcoming, entertaining demeanor. In addition to her culinary ventures, Baker ran a successful cleaning business and cultivated a talent for horticulture, turning indoor and outdoor spaces into beautiful retreats.
Her generosity extended well beyond the workplace. Baker was a devoted animal rescuer, welcoming a host of dogs—Friendly, Blue, Jethro, Ellie May, Tzar, Tonka, Otto, Kayla, Rowdy, and Birdie—into her home, as well as two cats, Les McLess and Lou McNally. Friends and neighbors often joined her on walks through the scenic trails of Hermit Island, where she found peace among her four‑legged companions.
Travel and family were also central to Baker’s life. She cherished trips to Florida and California and loved camping on Maine’s rugged coast, often returning with stories of the wilderness and a renewed appreciation for the natural world. Her laughter, humor, and unwavering willingness to help made her a pillar of the community, and many people credit her with unlocking their potential or offering a lifeline in times of need.
Baker is survived by her sister Paige, brother‑in‑law Steve Russell, and nephews Adam and Seth Russell. She was pre‑deceased by her mother, Doris Baker; her sister Kathryn; and her longtime friend, Stephen Hay. A celebration of life will be organized at a later date, with details to follow. Those wishing to share condolences or memories may visit the family’s funeral home website at www.desmondfuneralhomes.com.
Ruth Baker’s passing leaves a void in Bath’s heart, but her legacy of kindness, creativity, and community spirit will endure in the memories of all who had the privilege of knowing her.
