Johnny Baize

John Clinton Baize, age 77, passed from this life on Friday, April 11, 2025. He was born December 2, 1947, in Beaumont, TX, to Clifford Harold Jr. and Rachel Ann Pitman Baize.

A gentleman whose quiet strength, boundless kindness, and gentle spirit touched every soul he met; Johnny was a man of integrity and a Christian. He was born the second of four boys and was known as the sweetest among his siblings; his brothers were his best friends. During his service in the US Navy, Johnny's decency and intelligence were put to use in service to his country. It was in these formative years that he began a heartfelt correspondence with a young lady, JoAnn, who would become the love of his life. Their letters blossomed into a promise of forever; as soon as they met, Johnny declared his intent to marry her and care for her. He won not only her heart but also the admiration of her entire family. On June 6, 1969, they united in marriage. After eight years of dedicated service, and following the birth of his first daughter, Johnny was honorably discharged. He then embarked on a new chapter as a marine electronics engineer and technician, a career of more than 30 years. His work took him across the globe, where he lent his expertise on countless ships. Yet, no matter how far his travels led him, his heart was always anchored at home. There, he poured every ounce of his being into his family, filling his daughters' lives with laughter, silly moments, and a rare, genuine sense of humor. An avid fisherman, Johnny carried his rod with him almost everywhere, a testament to his love for nature, patience, and simple joys. He was blessed further when he became "PawPaw" to his grandchildren, a role in which he shone as a caring mentor and a source of laughter and wisdom. Johnny leaves behind a legacy that is beyond the ordinary. He was a man who worked diligently, loved unconditionally, and lived with a grace that made it a privilege to know him. His devotion to family, his gentle spirit, and his unwavering pursuit of goodness left an indelible mark on many hearts. His legacy of love, laughter, and gentle encouragement will forever be cherished, reminding those he loved that true greatness lives in a compassionate heart.

Left to honor his memory is beloved wife, JoAnn Baize; daughters, Raelynn Annette Earnheart and husband, Eric, and Heather Marie Baize; brother, Jimmy Doyle Baize and wife, Irene; sisters-in-law, Alice Baize and Cheryl Baize; grandchildren, Clinton Joseph Johnson and girlfriend, Katrina, Marissa JoAnn Evans and husband, James, Elizabeth Anne Earnheart and wife, Brianna Stuckey, Terriana LaMicah Canady, Andrew Eric Earnheart, and Abigail Jane Earnheart; great-grandchildren, John Reid Evans, Paris Lynn Johnson, Major Joseph Johnson, and Olivia JoAnna Evans; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, and loved ones.

Preceding Johnny in death are his parents and brothers, Leonard Allen Baize and Clifford Harold Baize Jr.

Visitation with family and friends will be Thursday, April 17, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm., at Lumberton Family Funeral Home, 766 S. Main St., Lumberton, TX 77657. Johnny’s life honoring funeral service will follow, beginning at 2:00 p.m., also at the funeral home, with Bro. Andrew Goolsby officiating.

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