"To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord." – 2 Corinthians 5:8

Reese Maurice Baker, Jr., 67, of Bridgeton, New Jersey, transitioned from labor to reward on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, while at home.

Born on April 29, 1958, in Bridgeton, NJ, Reese was the eldest child of the late Reese Baker, Sr. and Emma (Swain) Baker.
He was educated in the Bridgeton Public School System and went on to graduate from Cumberland County Vocational Technical School, earning a certification in Hospitality. Always determined to expand his skills, Reese later completed a CDL program and obtained his Class A commercial driver's license. Throughout his life, he worked faithfully in both the hospitality and transportation industries—fields that reflected his outgoing nature and love for people.

Reese gave his life to the Lord and joined his late aunt, Christine (Baker) Holloway, in fellowship at St. Phillips Missionary Baptist Church in Bridgeton, NJ. Since the early 2000s, he served faithfully as a Brother and dedicated member, always willing to lend a helping hand or offer a word of encouragement.

Those who knew Reese will forever remember his big smile, warm spirit, and his signature greeting, "Wassup, Cuz?" He had a gift for making everyone feel like family. Reese loved spending time with those he cared about—whether it was a barbecue, concert, or church fellowship, you could always count on him to show up and spread joy. He valued genuine connections and believed in treating everyone with love and respect, no matter their walk of life.

Reese was affectionately known as a "City Watchman." When he wasn't helping someone haul away unwanted items, he could often be found downtown, parked with the tailgate of his truck backed in— keeping watch, sharing stories, and checking in with familiar faces. Becoming his own boss in the hauling business was one of his proudest accomplishments. He found meaning in helping others clear out the old and make room for the new, often saying that people—just like things—deserved a second chance.
His wisdom and approach to life were shaped by the steady guidance of his late father, Reese Baker, Sr., his late uncle Ronnie Baker, and his uncle, Pastor Joseph Swain.

Reese was a devoted father, brother, uncle, grandfather, cousin, and friend. His love for family was boundless, and his presence brought laughter, comfort, and light wherever he went.

He leaves to cherish his memory: two daughters, Roshunda Braziel of Clayton, NJ, and LaToya Baker of Augusta, GA; son, Jeremy Scurry of Bridgeton, NJ; three brothers, Ben Baker of Williamstown, NJ, George Baker of Egg Harbor Township, NJ, and Joshua Baker of Bridgeton, NJ; one sister, Catherine Baker of Bridgeton, NJ; one aunt, Iris Swain of Woodbury, NJ; and one uncle, Pastor Joseph (Mary) Swain, Sr.

He will also be remembered by his grandchildren: Lamus Rhett, Jr., Lamera Rhett, Z'yasia Baker, Amir Baker, Anthony Reynolds, and Jonah Benjamin; five great-grandchildren; two bonus children, Joshua Scurry and Christina Scurry; his special friend, Marie Scurry; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Reese was preceded in death by his parents, Emma (Swain) Baker and Reese Baker, Sr.; his sister, Joyce L. (Baker) Brown; and his maternal and paternal grandparents.

Reese's life was a true reflection of love, laughter, and faith. Though his physical presence will be deeply missed, the impact of his kindness, humor, and heart will continue to live on in the many lives he touched.