Thomas Michael “Tom” Baker, 82, of Woodstock, VA, formerly of Wardensville, WV, died on Friday, January 23, 2026, at his home.
Tom was born on August 4, 1943, in Takoma Park, MD, the son of the late William O. and Sarah P. Wigner Baker. Tom and his wife, Helen, were the owners and operators of the Perry Wildlife Zoo in Wardensville for 28 years and also owned and operated Larkin’s grocery in Columbia Furnace, VA. He enjoyed watching the New England Patriots, Washington Redskins, and Washington Nationals. Most of all, he loved being outdoors tending to his animals, going on hikes and hunting.
Tom married Helen H. Porter on February 1, 1964, in Frederick, MD.
Surviving with his wife of nearly 62 years are three sons: Roger A. Baker (Leesa) of Newport, ME, Michael T. Baker (Pam) of Wardensville, WV, Brandon F. Baker of Kingman, AZ; two brothers: John P. and Robert W. Baker both of Wardensville, WV; five grandchildren and six great grandchildren.
Tom is preceded in death by a son: John L. Baker and a brother: David Baker.
A funeral service will be held at Loy-Giffin Funeral Home & Crematory on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 3:00 PM. Officiating will be Pastor Alanna McGuinn. Please dress casually. Interment will be privately held in the Mt. Vernon Cemetery near Wardensville, WV.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 1:30-3:00 PM.
Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Tom to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or Turning Point Ministries, PO Box 3838, San Diego, CA 92163.
Arrangements are by Loy-Giffin Funeral Home & Crematory, Wardensville, WV.
