Vernell (Jackie) Baker 99, lifelong resident of North Platte departed this life on March 31, 2020 at her youngest son's home in Omaha.
Jackie, the nickname given by her husband when in high school, was born August 19, 1920 in Moorefield, NE to Lewis & Vella (Todd) Herndon. Jackie attended Grade School in rural Moorefield, and High School at the Nebraska School of Agriculture in Curtis, graduating in 1938. Upon graduation she went on to Cosmetology School.
While at Curtis, Jackie met Clifford Baker of North Platte. They became friends, dated, and fell in love while attending high school. On December 10, 1939 Jackie and Clifford were united in marriage in Oberlin, KS. They lived in North Platte for a couple years before moving to Washington State where Ronnie was born. When Clifford enlisted in the Army, Jackie returned to North Platte for the birth of their daughter Bonita.
Jackie and the children resided with her parents while Clifford served in the Army Air Corp in India. Upon Clifford's discharge, Jackie pursued her career as a cosmetologist, homemaker and assisted at their business, Baker's Hatchery-Feed in rural North Platte. After closing their business in 1963.
Jackie changed careers and worked at North Platte Junior College, eventually working as a hostess and seamstress at different restaurants and department stores in North Platte area. She retired in the 1980's from Pay & Pak Stores.
She enjoyed the outdoors, and always maintained a meticulous lawn and flower garden. She liked to travel, and she took cruises and other trips to fourteen different countries. In addition, she liked to go fishing and hunting with her sons, shooting a 10-point buck at the age of 94, Jackie was an avid Husker fan and enjoyed watching TV westerns.
She was a member of the First Baptist Church, Order of Eastern Star, Past President of Social Order of Beauceant, American Legion Auxiliary, and Shrine Auxiliary.
Jackie held a deep appreciation for her children and family and remained devoted to Clifford's memory her entire life.
She was preceded in death by her husband Clifford; parents Lewis & Vella Herndon; in-laws Seeley & Bessie Baker and brother Arthur Herndon.
She is survived by her children Ronnie (Pat) Baker, Bonita (Randy) Ogier and Larry (Lani) Baker, 15 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, and 22 great-great grandchildren along with other family and friends. Her memory will be cherished.
Due to current health concerns there will be no Funeral Service. Family requests no flowers and memorials in Jackie’s memory be sent to donor’s choice. Visitation will be Sunday, April 5, 2020 from 3-6 p.m. at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home. Graveside services and interment for immediate family will be at Floral Lawns Cemetery. Adams & Swanson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.