Mark Lee Baldwin

Mark Lee Baldwin, 72, Nevada, Mo., a longtime area business owner, passed away Wednesday, April 23, 2014, at his home following a lengthy illness. Mark was born July 18, 1941, in Ozark, Ark., to Roy Lee Baldwin and Julia (Powell) Baldwin. He was united in marriage to Carmen Gaye Howell on Dec. 29, 1962, in Nevada, and she survives of the home.

Mark, along with his family came to the Cedar and Vernon County area at age 11 in 1952, and attended the Montevallo School. Mark worked at various occupations as a carpenter, mechanic and an electrician. In 1963, he began working for Brophy Monument Co. in Nevada and later purchased the business in 1970, which he and his wife Gaye have operated for the past 44 years.

The Baldwin family has served many Vernon county families through the years assisting area residents with selections of monuments for their loved ones in times of need. Aside from the monument business, Mark also raised cattle and enjoyed hunting and restoring antique cars.

In addition to his wife, Gaye, survivors include two sons, Mark Wayne Baldwin and his wife, Penny, of Nevada, and Kevin Baldwin and his wife, Shelly, of Nevada; seven grandchildren, Bridgette Merryfield, Afton Baldwin, Ethan Baldwin, Lindsay Smith, Austin Baldwin, Carolyne Baldwin, and Velvyt Baldwin; one great-grandchild, Jase Smith; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Mark was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters.

Graveside services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, April 26, at Moore Cemetery, Nevada, with Bro. Ray Dean Scism officiating. Family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m., Friday, at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to Heartland Hospice or Vernon County Cancer Relief in care of Ferry Funeral Home.

View obituary and send condolences online at www.ferryfuneralhome.com.