Valerie "Janie" Baker

Valerie Jane “Janie” Baker, a native of East Prairie, Missouri, and a resident of Fairhope, Alabama, passed away on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at the age of 64.

Janie graduated from East Prairie High School in 1978 where she was always surrounded by friends and laughter. There was rarely a time when there weren’t three or four girls at her house, sharing stories and having fun. Around 1983, she followed her dream and attended cosmetology school, becoming one of the most beloved hairdressers in the area. She stayed busy making others look and feel beautiful but always found time for her family. One special memory was when her sister traveled with her to Jefferson City to be her model for her final exam. When the exam required a short haircut, Janie refused to cut her little sister’s hair and instead used a mannequin head to complete the test – and of course, she aced it.

Janie built a long and successful career in cosmetology. She was known not only for her talent, but also for her kindness, humor, and the joy she brought to every client. Her salon chair was a place filled with conversation, laughter, and love – she touched countless lives through her work. She was strong, independent, and full of life. If there was something she wanted, she would figure out how to make it happen. Her humor and quick wit kept everyone around her smiling, and her warmth made people feel instantly comfortable. She was deeply admired for her strength and her heart.

More than anything, Janie was proud of her children, stepchildren, and all her grandbabies. She loved and adored them with her whole heart – they were truly the light of her life. Later in life, she married the love of her life, Todd, who stood faithfully by her side through every joy and every challenge. His love, care, and devotion – especially during her courageous battle with cancer – were a beautiful testament to their bond. Together, they shared a love that was gentle, strong and enduring.

She was preceded in death by her father, Hillis C. Poe.

Janie leaves behind to cherish her memory, her husband, Todd A. Baker of Fairhope; mother, Helen Poe; sister, Kim Poe (Kevin Burney); son, Dustin Baker (Starr) and their children, Guy, Aubrie and Ivie; all of East Prairie, MO; daughter, Casey Earnheart (Blake) and their children, Landon and Cash, all of Springfield, MO; stepsons, Tyler Baker (Brittney) and their children, Kate and Madison and Seth Baker (Taylor) and their children, Jayce and Ava, all of Sikeston, MO; many other relatives and dear friends.

A Celebration of Janie’s life will be held in East Prairie, MO. The date, time and location will soon be announced.

Janie’s life was a beautiful reflection of love, laughter, and unwavering strength. She touched everyone she met with her kindness, humor, and generous heart. Though her time here has ended, her spirit will live on in the lives of those she loved so deeply – her husband, Todd, her children, stepchildren, grandchildren, her family, and her many dear friends. Her courage, faith, and her love will never be forgotten. We take comfort in knowing she is now at peace, free from pain, and reunited with loved ones who went before her. Her light will continue to shine in all of us who were blessed to know her.