Donna Mills Baker

Donna Mills Baker, 79, of Phenix City, Alabama, passed away on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at Columbus Hospice, surrounded by family and friends. Donna faced Parkinson’s disease with steady courage, grace, and determination for many years, and she will be deeply missed for her warm spirit and the way she made others feel cared for. Visitation will be on Friday, May 8, 2026, from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at Vance Brooks Funeral Home, 3738 US Highway 431 N, Phenix City, AL 36867. A private funeral service for family and close friends will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 1:00 PM, with her cousin, Pastor Brian E. Bazemore officiating. For nearly sixty years, Donna was the beloved wife of Colonel William H. Baker, USAF, Retired, building a life with him rooted in faith, devotion, and family. She was born Donna Annette Mills in Columbus, Georgia on November 12, 1946, the daughter of Nuel Hugh Mills and Rubye Marion Bazemore Mills. She was raised in Columbus, Georgia and graduated from Jordan Vocational High School.

Donna was a devoted military wife and a loving mother who supported her husband’s career for more than twenty-six years, moving the family across the United States and Europe and turning each new assignment into a true home. No matter where they were stationed, she greeted change with a positive outlook, found community, and made sure her family felt settled and happy. She enjoyed being involved with the Officers Wives Club, and as the Squadron Commander’s wife she often helped lead and plan events and activities that brought people together. Donna grew up at Epworth United Methodist Church, and throughout her life her faith and love of God remained a steady source of strength. As a girl, she loved playing baseball with her brother, Mike, and she was a proud majorette in the Jordan Vocational High School marching band. Donna had a big heart—she loved animals, music, baking, dancing, crafting, and especially reading to and caring for children. She spent many years as a pre-school teacher, a role that fit her gentle nature and patient encouragement. Above all, Donna loved being with her family. She cheered on her children and grandchildren and took great joy in watching them take part in their activities and sporting events. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Michael N. Mills. She is survived by her husband, Colonel William H. Baker, of Phenix City, AL, three children Christopher M. Baker, husband of Ashley S. Baker, Angela K. Baker, of Mobile, AL, Amy D. Baker of Columbus, GA., and sisters Kathy L. Mills and Lisa K. Mills of Columbus, Georgia. She is also survived by her three grandchildren, Noah C. Baker, Reagan E. Baker, and Peyton E. Baker as well as many cousins and caring friends.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Donna’s devoted caregivers at Columbus Hospice and Piedmont Northside Hospital for the kindness, compassion, and comfort they provided. The family will graciously accept flowers, or memorial contributions may be made to the Michael J. Fox Parkinson’s Foundation at give.michaeljfox.org, Animal Ark Rescue at animalarkrescue.com, or Columbus Hospice at columbushospice.com.