Joan Baker Gates

Joan Elizabeth Baker, age 49, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2026 surrounded by the love of family and friends.

Born on August 23, 1976 in Homer, Louisiana. Joan lived a life marked by kindness, strength, and devotion to those she loved. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, friend and nurse for more than 20 years. She touched countless lives through her compassion, kindness, and unwavering commitment to her patients. Nursing was more than a career to Joan—it was a calling, and she poured her heart into serving those in her care.

Joan enjoyed reading, trivia, doing crossword puzzles and spending time with family and friends. She was known for all the useless trivia knowledge she had learned over the years and her love for Def Leppard and 80’s rock bands.

She is survived by her children: Kylie Lord (Christian), Alex Timberlake (Lizzie), Matthew Gates (Kayleigh), Christina Gates, Cassie Eppinette (Nathan), and Wyatt Gates (Casady). She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Greysen and Ayden Lord, Griffin Timberlake, Lila Jordan, and Paisley Gates.

She is proceeded in death by her mother, Jean Austin and her maternal and paternal grandparents.

Though her presence will be deeply missed, her love, wisdom, and cherished memories will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

A memorial service celebrating Joan’s life will be held on Friday, June 12, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at Mount Mariah Church in Athens, Louisiana. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance and celebration of a life well lived.

Forever loved, forever remembered.