John Melvin Baker, 81, Fayetteville, died March 23, 2007. He was born Dec.25, 1925 in the Ben Hill area of Atlanta. He was a graduate of Russell HighSchool and a varsity football player. He served in the United States Navyduring World War II. He was an avid golfer and after leaving Ft. McPhersonGolf Course, he built his own course, Pebble Creek in Jonesboro, long with several partners. He was a member of the Fayetteville First United Methodist Church, and Veteran of Foreign Wars and was a Master Mason for over 50 years. Services were at the Fayetteville First United Methodist Church with the Rev. Mark Westmoreland officiating.

Survivors include is wife, Earle Y. Baker, Fayetteville; a son, Scott and Dee-Dee Baker, Sharpsburg; a daughter, Tish Jackson, Douglasville; grandchildren, Jesse and Rebecca Jackson, and Lauren and Wyn Baker-Rankin; and brothers, Hill and Betty Baker, and Spence Baker. Memorial donations may be made to the Fayetteville First United Methodist Church.

Carl J. Mowell & Son Funeral Home, Fayetteville, was in charge.