Betty Baker, PhD (Anthropology)

January 10, 1941 – March 6, 2026

Happiest sharing a glass of wine with friends, as grand-dame at Cabernet Frank's in Parksville, traveling, and endlessly redesigning spaces. An anthropologist at heart, she always noted the small rituals of everyday life. Betty taught sociology and anthropology, later working as an administrator with the Girl Scouts, the Jewish Community Center, and the University at Buffalo Department of Economics, where she particularly enjoyed working with students. She is survived by her children, RJ (Wade St. Germain & Schmuely, the dog) Baker and Joseph (Cecilia Yáñez) Baker; her grandchildren, Jaia and Ariel Baker Yáñez; and her brother Kenneth (Diane) Cohen. Betty was formerly married to the late Russell Baker. A service will be planned at a later date. Donations in her memory may be made to Planned Parenthood. Share condolences at mesnekoff.com