David Alan Baker, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, community leader, and friend, passed away on July 17, 2026, at the age of 87.

Born on December 25, 1938, in Jacksonville, Florida, David was the son of Grace (Maddox) Baker and Robert Baker, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his siblings Robert, John, Tom, and Carol.

David proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps, attaining the rank of Corporal. He served from January 6, 1959, to December 14, 1962, and was stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point. His military service reflected the discipline and devotion to others which characterized his life.

On July 23, 1960, David married the love of his life, Mary Anne. Together, they shared 66 years of marriage built on love, partnership, faithfulness, and family.

In 1973, David and Mary Anne founded Jacksonville Bolt and Screw Company, which later became AJAX Company. What began as a local shop grew into a successful business with multiple branches throughout the Southeast. David’s entrepreneurial spirit and leadership helped build a lasting company and legacy within the fastener industry.

David was recognized for his leadership in business, including being honored as the Jacksonville Small Business Leader of the Year in 1986. He also served as a board member of the National Fastener Distributors Association, where he contributed his knowledge, experience, and vision to the industry he helped shape.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, David devoted himself to his community. He was a founding member of the Oceanside Rotary Club, served as its president in 1991, and was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow. He also served as president of the Board of Directors of the Boys & Girls Club. More than 20 years ago, he helped raise funds to build the Beaches Boys & Girls Club, now known as the McKenzie Wilson Boys & Girls Club, providing life-changing opportunities for thousands of local children.

David is survived by his devoted wife, Mary Anne, and their daughters, Michele (Jody) Hale, Melissa Devers, and Maria (Mark) Johnson. He found great joy and pride in his grandchildren: Meghan (Dave Killingsworth), David (Cayla) Devers, Alana Putnam, Claire King, Jackson Gardner, and Connor (Chrissy) Hale. He was blessed with eight great-grandchildren: Emma and Nora Devers; Walker, Esther, and Rumer Putnam; Moses and Elijah Killingsworth; and Charlotte King. He also leaves behind many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews.

David’s relationship with Jesus Christ was at the center of his life. His faith guided the way he loved his family, conducted his business, and served his community. He believed that the success he experienced in his marriage, family, and career was not his alone, but a blessing from God. That gratitude was reflected in his generosity, humility, and desire to use his blessings to help others.

David will be remembered for his faith, integrity, generosity, leadership, and the many lives he touched through his work, friendships, and service.

A service celebrating David’s life will be held on Friday, July 24, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at 913 Church, 2560 Mayport Road, Atlantic Beach, Florida. The service will be led by Pastor Chris Hopkins, with a reception following at Sizemore’s Coastal Kitchen, 333 1st Street North, Unit 110, Jacksonville Beach, Florida. Interment at Jacksonville National Cemetery, with military honors, will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Florida in David’s memory. Donations may be made at bgcnf.org/donate, continuing his legacy of serving young people.