Trustee Lenerer "Len" Sybrenta Baker Pittman, 70, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, July 18, 2023, at Northwest Medical Center in Broward County, FL.  Len was a bright ray of sunshine in the lives of those she loved.  She had a natural gift for creating connections and bringing people together with her professionalism and structured approach.  Len lived a life of abundance and purpose, undoubtedly led by the Lord every step of the way.  Her absence will be deeply felt by those who knew and treasured her.  While we mourn her passing, we find comfort in knowing that her spirit rests with the Lord.

Len was born to the late Deacon Napoleon Warsaw Baker and Deaconess Florence Elizabeth Freeman Baker on Sunday, January 18, 1953, in Woodford, VA.  When Len was 9, she accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Savior and was baptized at Macedonia Baptist Church in Woodford under the guidance of the late Pastor William Brown.  Growing up in Bakerstown, she took pride in being called a "Baker."  She had an unshakable belief in God and cherished her loved ones.  While at Macedonia, she became the head of the Brown Youth Sharing Group, with her mother helping her.  She actively inspired young people to trust in themselves and imparted valuable advice on self-worth and coping with life's challenges.  In June 1971, Len graduated from Bowling Green High School in Bowling Green, VA.  The school, formerly known as Union High School, has a rich history and underwent integration in 1970.  As an outstanding student, Len joined the French and Drama Club and the Marching, Concert and Jazz Bands, where she played the clarinet.

While living in the D.C. area, she attended Temple Business School and graduated after completing her studies.  She was a Marketing Business Manager at Diverse Technologies Corporation in Lanham, MD, and a part-time freelance fashion model for different department stores in VA, D.C., and NY.  For years, Len owned a vintage 1963 Corvette convertible with interchangeable soft black and white tops.  Without hesitation, she took on the responsibility of raising her great-niece, Tanisha, from age three while juggling full-time and part-time work.  She also became a member of Saint James Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Pastor James Gayles.  She actively participated in the church ministry and organized numerous external events for worship services.  Len was a dependable advisor to Pastor Gayles, who was always open to her ideas.

Eventually, she and Tanisha relocated to Boca Raton, FL, where her great-great nephew, Elijah, was born . Tanisha and Elijah affectionately called her "Baker," she cherished her beloved family as much as they loved her.  It is evident that "Baker's" absence will be deeply felt.

While living in Florida, Len was the Office Manager at Florida Atlantic University (FAU) for over 22 years.  She was a certified Legal Secretary and Event Planner, and her exceptional service earned her the FAU Student Advisor of the Year award in 2013.  Len was also honored with the National Society of Collegiate Scholars Award for Distinguished Membership. Len found joy in worshipping her Savior during the Easter Sunrise service on the beach.   Later, she fell in love and married Benjamin "Ben" Pittman in 1999.  He was an independent consultant and Vice-President of Liquid AG System, Pompano Beach, FL.  Sadly, Ben passed away suddenly on Saturday, March 24, 2001.

Len was an advisor for the National Council of Negro Women to improve the quality of life for African American women in their families and communities.  She proudly served as a community organizer.  She actively participated in local and national politics, urging people to register, and cast their votes. In June 2021, Len coordinated the 50th Reunion Celebration for former Union High, Caroline, and Ladysmith students.

Len had been attending for some time but recently decided to join Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church in the historic Pearl City community under the leadership of Pastor Ronald and first lady Wanda Brown.  She was always present for Sunday school, Bible study, and church services.  Len was dubbed the "Rookie of the Year" by her pastor for her brief yet enthusiastic participation in the church.  Len was actively involved in the Pearl City community garden project, providing residents with nutritious food.  Additionally, she served as the secretary for Developing Interracial Social Changes (D.I.S.C.), a community outreach program.  In recognition of her exceptional contributions, Pastor Brown has appointed her as an Honorary Trustee posthumously.   On earth, Len will always be known as "Trustee Baker," but now she has a new name written down in glory.

Len came home to celebrate the 4th of July with her family, with what seemed to be divine intervention by the Holy Spirit; her family was overjoyed to see her and showered her with love.  Not knowing they were saying their final farewells.

Len was preceded in death by husband, Benjamin Pittman; parents: Napoleon and Florence Baker; brothers: Herland Sr., James, Mack, Raymond, and Gregory Baker; nieces: Cassandra Walker and Jaqueline Baker; nephew: Joe Frazier Baker; grandparents: Dansberry, Sr., and Sallie Chew Baker; grandparents: James and Ella Freeman; brother-in-law, Randolph Smith, and family friend, Andrew Washington.

Len leaves to cherish her memory sisters Yvonne Walker and Marcella Smith; great-niece Tanisha Walker; great-great nephew Elijah Walker; sister-in-law Gloria Baker; and Aunt Carrie Baker and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, friends, and colleagues.

A viewing will be held from  6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, August 18, 2023 at C.W. Edwards Funeral Home, Inc; 16476 Richmond Turnpike, Bowling Green, Virginia 22427.

Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 19, 2023 at Macedonia Baptist Church, 7187 Macedonia Road, Woodford, Virginia  22580 with a viewing one hour prior to the service.

Interment will follow in the church cemetery on Claiborne Crossing Road, Woodford, Virginia 22580.

Livestreaming will be available on C W Edwards Funeral Home Facebook page.