Big Stone Gap, Va.-Connie Lou Mel Baker, 76, passed away on Tuesday, July 14, 2020, at her home.

     She was born and raised in Wise, Va. and had lived in Big Stone Gap for the past five years.  She was a teacher’s aide for the Wise Co. Public Schools and also a home health nurse for several years.

     She was preceded in death by a daughter, Valerie Desma Justice; her parents, James Floyd Wright and Goldie (Baker) Wright; and siblings, Phoebe Sandra Collins, Goebel Wright, Frank Wright and Gayle “Brother” Wright. 

     She is survived by her daughter, Heather Gilley (Hester), Bristol, Va.; grandchildren, Heather “Nikki” Gilley, Alley Gilley, Haley Gilley, Elizabeth Lester and Ryan Hensley; and great grandchildren, Adalee Lester and Jase Hensley.

     Arrangements are private.

     Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve Ms. Baker’s family.