The Journey began on December 9, 1935, in Mexia Texas to the parentage of Henry and Jessie Mae Baker. He attended Sims Colony School and Dunbar High School in Mexia Texas.

He Married the Love of his life Bobbie Jean McClendon on September 25th, 1954, to this union six children were born.

Employed for Texas Steel and Pritchett & Stevenson Refrigeration also ICX Freight after he retired.

Pastor of the Bethlehem Baptist Church for 13 years. He was an avid Jokester and comedian his life was filled with laughter.

Manuel was preceded in death by his parents Henry and Jessie Mae Baker; sisters, Bettey King, Maggie Agers, Henrietta Carter, Mary Ann Zamora, Myrtle Robinson; brothers, Milton Baker, Leon Baker, Donald Baker, Eugene Baker; one granddaughter, Crystal Ogwurike.

He leaves to cherish his memories his wife of 69 years, Bobbie Jean Baker; son, Emanuel Baker; daughters, Alice London, Felecia McAfee, Frankie Baker, Shirley Rhodes, LaShawn Baker; brothers, Leonard Baker (Doris) and Jimmy Baker; 10 grandchildren, 12 greatgrandchildren, 2 great greatgrandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.