BILOXI — Russell C. “Rip” Baker Jr., age 86, of Montgomery, Ala., passed away Saturday, March 10, 2018, in Jackson.

Rip was born in Vicksburg on Jan. 1, 1932. He was a graduate of St. Aloysius High School and received his bachelor’s degree from Auburn University, where he was a member of the wrestling team. He earned a master’s degree from the University of Mississippi.

He served in the United States Air Force as a navigator and instructor navigator. He retired as a Major from the USAF with 20 years of active and reserve service.

Rip was a lifelong educator. He taught at the college level and worked as a consultant in the areas of education and development.

He retired from the Alabama Indian Affairs Commission in Montgomery, Ala., in 1994.

In his retirement, Rip enjoyed outdoor activities and traveling the world. He loved sharing his travel adventures with his family. He adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a lifelong Auburn fan.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Susan H. Baker and his father, Russell C. Baker Sr.

Rip is survived by his wife of 64 years, Mary Frances Baker; sons, Stephen Baker (Shelley), Timothy Baker (Wilda), Michael Baker (Arlene); and daughter, Suzanne Starnes; grandchildren, Ashley McCain (Jonathan), Benjamin Baker (Lauren), Emaline Brady (Beau), Caroline Baker, Evan Baker, William Baker and Molly Starnes; great-grandchildren, Gavin Burton and Fisher McCain; and brothers, James “Tommy” Baker, John “Jack” Baker (Judy), and David Baker (Carolyn).

Inurnment will be at the Biloxi National Cemetery Monday, March 19, 2018 at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Sierra Club.