Iola Butts Baker, 101, died Wed Feb 25, 2026, at home in the loving care of her family. Born on August 24, 1924, she was the oldest of 10 siblings, 7 of whom lived to be adults. She was the last survivor.

She was preceded in death by her brothers, Lorenzo [Lo], (Thelma), Otis [Dick] Jr. (Delores), Linwood [Lin],), Wallace [Sam] Butts as well as her sisters, Goldie [Baby Mae], Drumgole (James) and Helen [Pinky] Haggins.

She was educated in the public school system and worked in retail at Thalheimer's and Miller and Rhodes.

In 1957 she dedicated her life to Jehovah and was baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses and in the next 69 years she assisted over 20 family members and others to worshipping the one true God, Jehovah.

Iola leaves to mourn two daughters, Beverly and Barbara of Chesapeake VA, two sons, Bernard, Jr. of Norfolk, VA and Barry of Chicago, Il, one grandson, 3 grandchildren, nieces, nephews and many Christian family and friends.

The family deeply appreciates the professional care of Harmony Cares and Kempsville Health and Rehab Center. Professional Services entrusted to Pretlow & Sons Funeral Home.

A viewing will be held from 5pm until 7pm on Friday, March 6, 2026, at Pretlow and Sons Funeral Home, 500 Liberty St, Chesapeake. A memorial service will be held at a later date.