Mrs. Karen "Kay" Belcher died May 21. The daughter of Mr. Lindsey Blecher and the late Mrs. Sarah Reed Belcher, Mrs. Baker was born in 1968. She was raised and educated in Newton County, attending Newton County High School. She professed her faith in Christ at an early age, joining Murray C.M.E. Church, singing in the choir and serving as a Junior Usher in the Christian Youth Fellowship Organization. She was a great fundraiser for the church. She married Mr. Gregory Baker in 2005 and was the proud mother of three children and step-mother of four. She loved being with her family and friends. Mrs. Baker was compassionate and kindhearted with a friendly personality. She was a joy to those whose lives she touched.

Surviving are husband Gregory Baker; children Seyonna Belcher, Michael Belcher, Rommie Belcher, Terrence Hardge, DeNario Gaither, Gregori Heard, Demetrice Weaver; grandchildren Shamarion and MaKenzie Belcher, Tyler Hardeman, Jalin Heard, DeMorrion Manuel; father Lindsey Belcher; sisters Natalie (David) Lewis, Sharon Durden, Lisa Belcher; brothers Clyde (Joanne) Smith, Jeffery (Gloria) Smith, Gregory (Desha) Smith, Ronnie Belcher, Christopher (Pamela) Smith, Lindsey (Angela) Smith, Brice Reed, Stanley Cooper, Michael (Debbie) Smith; aunts Shirley (Sidney) Jackson, Mildred (Eddie Roy) Sims; uncles Carey (Sarah) Belcher, William Rakestraw, David (Shirley) Rakestraw; in-laws Marion (Margaret) Baker, Kenny Jones (Bernice), Gail (Oscar) Goggins, Kathy (Reginald) Maddox, Faye Baker; and a hose of nieces, nephews, other loving relatives and numerous dear friends.

Funeral services will be at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, May 28, at Murray C.M.E. Church with Pastor the Rev. Gloria Blue and the Rev. Christopher Waula officiating. Interment will follow in Lawnwood Cemetery. Visitation is from 1 to 6 p.m. at the funeral home today, May 27.