Sherlie Baker

Sherlie Baker, a pillar of compassion and a lifelong resident of Cleveland, Ohio, transitioned peacefully on March 11, 2026. Born on April 5, 1954, Sherlie was the cherished daughter of George Washington Baker and Willie Mae Baker, whose values of integrity and faith she carried throughout her life. A proud alumna of Jane Adams High School, Sherlie possessed an insatiable drive for both personal growth and the betterment of her community. This ambition led her to earn a Master's Degree in Social Work, a milestone that laid the foundation for her life's calling. Sherlie dedicated her professional life to the chemical dependency field, where she stood as a beacon of hope for those navigating their darkest chapters. Known for her clinical expertise & resolute spirit, she didn't just work in a field.

Sherlie found the Lord at an early age and was a member of the Historical Greater Friendship Baptist Church, where she was a pillar in the ministries of Hope and the Willing Workers. She will be remembered for her wittiness, sense of humor, and no-nonsense attitude. The extracurricular activities she enjoyed outside of church included shopping and spending time with her boys, and she was known for always keeping it real.

Sherlie's greatest masterpiece was the family she nurtured. Her strength and spirit will be carried forward by her two devoted sons, Kowaine Baker (wife, Diana) and Keelan Baker, who were her greatest source of pride. Her legacy of love continues through her five cherished grandchildren, the lights of her life: Myra Martin, Sierra Baker, Michael Rieg, Kowaine Baker Jr., Jamarr Hall and Jamarri Robbins.

She is survived by her dear sister and lifelong companion, Deborah Baker-Ricks (Perry). Her memory remains a guiding force for her nieces and nephews: Adrienne Choba (husband, Abraham), Sheronda Baker, Toni Johnson, Deshaugn Hedge, Joe Baker, Cedric Baker, and George Baker Jr.

Sherlie now rests in eternal peace alongside her baby boy, Jamarr Forkland, and is reunited with those who paved the way before her. She was preceded in death by her loving parents, George Washington Baker and Willie Mae Baker, and her three brothers, George Baker, Orlando Baker, and Tony Baker. While she has transitioned from this life, the foundation of faith and family they built together remains unshakable. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. (2 Timothy 4:7)

A memorial service will be held at Watson's funeral home, 10913 Superior Ave., Cleveland, Ohio 44106, on March 21, 2026, at 9:30. All floral arrangements can be sent to Keelan Baker @ 10604 Elk Ave. Cleveland, Ohio 44108, or directly to the funeral home for inclusion in the ceremony.

Forever loved by the family