James Theodore Baer of Pensacola, FL, passed away on Tuesday, August 1, 2023, surrounded by his family. He was 86 years old.

Jim, fondly known as Papa Baer, was born on December 8, 1936, in Lima, OH. At eight days old, he was adopted by Phyllis and Ted Baer of Columbus Grove, OH. He always counted his parents as one of his greatest blessings as they taught him and showered him with unconditional love. Upon graduation from high school, Jim headed to Purdue University and subsequently the University of Louisville where he met the love of his life, Gail Folsom. For 23 years of their marriage, they traveled the globe while Jim worked in intelligence in the United States Army. In 1983, Jim retired and worked as a government contractor in and around Washington, DC. In 1997, he and Gail relocated to Pensacola, FL.

Jim had many hobbies and passions. He was an avid sailor and golfer. He was a masterful carpenter. He adored a great book and enjoyed the movies. He was a family man and relished time spent with his grandchildren. He never met a dog he didn't love particularly yellow Labrador Retrievers.

If you ever asked Papa Baer when his life actually began, he would probably say Mother's Day of 2000. On the same day his youngest grandchild was baptized, he dedicated his life to Jesus. As with anything he ever took an interest in; Jesus, serving others and the church, learning and teaching the Bible became his passion. He taught and wrote many Bible studies and was active in the Emmaus community. He particularly loved mentoring and teaching youth. He served at The Walk (an after-school program for middle schoolers), Of Chorus, VBS, Breakfast with Santa, Chrysalis, Confirmation, Sunday school and Winshape Camps. Wherever there was a need, he eagerly filled it. Papa Baer firmly believed that all of us are given the opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus no matter our age.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Phyllis and Ted and his favorite yellow labs, Winnie, Roo, Pooh, Bunny and Lottie.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Gail Baer; children, Michael Baer (Karen) and Jennie Barrow (Scott) and his much beloved grandchildren, Shaun Baer, Riley Baer, Ben Barrow and Lucy Barrow.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held 2:00pm Friday, November 10, 2023, at Community Life Church, 4115 Soundside Dr, Gulf Breeze, FL, 32561, with Rev. Scott Veroneau officiating. Private family interment will be held at Barrancas National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his honor to either Echo Life Kids located at Echo Life Church, 3880 N. Davis Hwy, Pensacola, FL, 32503 or Children and Youth Department at Community Life Church, 4115 Soundside Dr, Gulf Breeze, FL, 32561.