SMITHFIELD—Wilbert Earl Baker, 73, died in his home April 28, 2008, with his family at his side.

A native of Johnston County, N.C., he had been a Smithfield resident for the past 23 years and was a former Hampton resident.

All of his life, Mr. Baker was involved in automotive repair. He was the former owner of Old Point Body Shop (Hampton), and had been an employee of Vic’s Auto (Franklin).

Most recently, he worked for White’s Auto Repair (Suffolk). He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and brother.

He enjoyed fishing, gardening, NASCAR and was passionate about his motorcycles. He was a member of the Virginia Tractor Puller’s Association and the Moose Lodge No. 141, Suffolk.

He was of the Baptist faith. He was preceded in death by his parents; his grandmother, Emma Baker, who raised him; daughter, Linda Faye Baker; brothers, Bobby Ray Baker and J.D. Baker; and a half brother, Bobby Tew.

Survivors include his wife of 49 years, Betty L. Baker; daughters, Judy Baker Savage (Billy) and Kathy Baker Hughes (Brickey); son, Raiford Earl Baker (Rhonda); half brothers, Hubert Tew and Gerald Tew; sister, Jean Macioci; half sister, Brenda Robertson; six grandchildren, Matthew Baker, Nicole Savage, Nicholas Savage, Amanda Baker Smith, Kelly Hughes and Jaye Hughes; two great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

A life celebration service will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday in Colonial Funeral Home, Smithfield, with Pastor Patricia Thames officiating.

Burial will follow in St. Luke’s Memorial Park. The family will receive friends today from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the funeral home and other times at the residence.

The family suggests memorial contributions to Smithfield Volunteer Fire Dept., Outfitting New Rescue Truck Fund, P.O. Box 117, Smithfield, VA 23431.

The family wishes to thank the staff of the Heartland Hospice, especially Becky and Dawn.