Matilda Elizabeth Cummings Baker

Matilda Elizabeth Cummings Baker passed away peacefully on May 8, 2024, at the age of 103
in Highlands, North Carolina. Born on February 5, 1921, in Alvarado, Texas, Matilda's life was a
tapestry of determination, faith, and courage throughout her remarkable life.
Matilda was a proud alumna of North Texas State Teachers College, now known as the
University of North Texas. Her passion for education was evident as she embarked on her
career teaching Home Economics in the Alvarado School, where she inspired many young
minds in Johnson County, Texas.
With the onset of World War II, Matilda served her country with distinction as an air traffic
controller, joining the ranks at the Fort Worth center. Her service during this critical time was a
testament to her adaptability and patriotic spirit. After the war, she returned to her background
as a home economist, working for Texas Power & Light in Fort Worth, Texas City, Amarillo and
the Abilene area. As a home demonstration agent, she showed people how to use new
appliances in their homes, combining her love for education and innovation. She was one of the
first to demonstrate the marvels of microwave ovens to an intrigued public on her own television
show.
Upon retiring from Texas Power & Light, Matilda's life took a turn towards personal fulfillment as
she found love and married. She generously devoted her time to volunteering at the West Texas
Rehabilitation Center in Abilene, Texas, supporting the community while her son pursued his
education.
Those who knew Matilda will remember her as a woman of unwavering faith, immense bravery
and a bit of stubbornness. Her life was a testament to the impact one individual can have
through a commitment to education, community service, and the embrace of innovation. Her
story is not just one of personal achievements, but also of the lives she touched. She navigated
the challenges of her time with grace and strength.
Matilda's legacy is cherished and upheld by her loving family. She was preceded in death by her
parents, Dr. William Jackson Cummings, Sr., and Lela Lena Hefner Cummings, as well as her
siblings Imogene Cummings Sansom, Maurice H. Cummings, Alpha Theta Cummings McLeroy,
Jay Frank Cummings, and Polly Cummings Kline. She is survived by her devoted brother, Dr.
William Jackson Cummings, Jr., of Tyler, Texas; her son, Dr. J. Scott Baker, and his wife,
Rebecca Lynne Baker, both of Highlands, North Carolina; her grandson, T. Forrest Baker, of
Takasaki, Japan; and her granddaughter, Bailey Elizabeth Baker, of Brooklyn, New York.
As we reflect on Matilda's remarkable journey, we honor the memory of a woman who navigated
the complexities of the 20th and 21st centuries with determination. Her spirit, a guiding light for
her family and all who had the pleasure of knowing her, will continue to inspire future
generations. Though she moved to North Carolina in her later years, she remained true to her
Texas roots.
We bid farewell to Matilda, a cherished matriarch, a pioneer in her field, and a treasured
member of the community. Her life's work and the values she upheld will remain as a lasting
tribute to a life well-lived. Matilda Elizabeth Cummings Baker, your story is one of triumph,
compassion, and unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. May you rest in peace and may your memory be a blessing to all. 

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