Wilma Johnston Baker

                                        Wilma Johnston Baker

                                  11 February 1930 - 21 October 2025

Wilma Johnston Baker was born to Noble and Dessie Crawford Johnston in Compton, California on February 11, 1930.  She succumbed peacefully to Heaven in her sleep on October 21, 2025 with family by her side.

Wilma was a graduate of Lynwood High School, Compton Junior College, and earned her BA and MA in Home Economics at California State Polytechnic College. After attaining her teaching credentials, Wilma taught Home Economics at Santa Maria High School for her entire career. She was especially happy teaching Senior Seminar Family Living, a coed class encompassing many facets of entering the adult world.

Growing up in a musical family, Wilma devoted her talents playing piano, accordion and marimba in church orchestras and as church pianist. She also directed and sang in church choirs.  She was an accomplished seamstress, making most of her daughters’ clothing which included prom dresses, bridesmaid and bridal gowns.

Wilma was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Gerald M. Baker, and her brother Zandell Johnston. 

She is survived by daughters Gwendolyn Melton (son-in-law Bill), and Faye Overton; grandsons Derrick (Chris) Melton, Keith (Annette) Melton, Brandon and Trevor Stokes; great grandchildren Sarah Jade Stokes, Alexis Stokes, and Dylan Melton, her sister Ruby Styler, brother David Johnston, her “bonus” grands Kim and Ann, and 4 bonus great grands, and many beloved nieces and nephews. 

Visitation at Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel in Grover Beach on November 20 from 4 to 6 in the evening.  A graveside service will be held the following day at the Arroyo Grande Cemetery at 1 pm.

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