Mary Frances Buchanan Baker (88) of Vicksburg, MS passed away peacefully, in her home surrounded by her loving family, on October 15, 2021.

Mary Frances was born in Vicksburg, Mississippi to Frances Wright Buchanan and Benjamin James Buchanan on March 7, 1933.   She attended St. Francis Xavier Academy, graduating in 1951. She attended Mississippi Southern College (now University of Southern Mississippi).

Mary Frances worked at First National Bank of Vicksburg (now Trustmark Bank) before taking a position at USACE Vicksburg District.  She later transferred to USACE Waterways Experiment Station (now ERDC), retiring as an Accounting Technician in 1996.  She received numerous awards for her exceptional performance while employed with USACE.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Russell C. Baker, Jr.  Mary Frances is survived by sons Stephen Baker (Shelley) of Fairhope, AL, Timothy Baker (Wilda) of Cumming, GA, Michael Baker (Arlene) of Mount Dora, FL and daughter Suzanne Starnes (Randy) of Vicksburg, MS; grandchildren Ashley McCain (Jonathan), Benjamin Baker (Lauren), Emaline Brady (Beau), Caroline Baker, Evan Baker, William Baker and Molly Starnes and great grandchildren Gavin Burton, Fisher McCain, Russell Baker and Owen Brady.

Mary Frances was a loving, supportive and devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and life-long friend to many.  Mary Frances was a devout Catholic, who was active in St. Paul's Catholic Church and strong in her faith.   She had a love for entertaining friends and family, especially during the holidays, with her beautiful decorations and cooking.  Her interest included baking, sewing, reading, watching classic movies, playing bridge, cheering on MSU and the Saints, shopping and gardening.  Mary Frances loved to support her many friends in the community by shopping local at her favorite boutiques Cinnamon Tree, Sassafras, and Ivy Place. She also loved dining with loved ones at her favorite restaurants Anchuca, Rowdy's, Walnut Hills, Goldies and Beechwood.

The family would like to  express gratitude to Amy Belk and the staff at St. Joseph Hospice and caregiver Jennifer Grace who will always be remembered for their excellent care and compassion.

Visitation will be from noon to 1:30 pm on Wednesday October 20, 2021 at Fisher-Riles funeral home, 1830 Cherry Street in Vicksburg, Mississippi.  Following visitation, a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Paul Catholic Church in Vicksburg at 2 pm followed by burial at the Cedar Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Vicksburg Catholic Schools, 1900 Grove Street, Vicksburg, MS 39183.