LaWanda D. Clinkscale Baker

            Mrs. LaWanda D. Clinkscale Baker, 68, of Youngstown departed her earthly body on February 24, 2025 at home.

            LaWanda was born October 7, 1956 in Youngstown, the first daughter of William E. and Minnie L. Branch Baker.  “Wanda” as she was affectionately known has accomplished many educational goals throughout her life, first by graduating South High School a year early in 1974.  She then obtained a medical assistant certification in 1987.  Wanda took some time off her educational journey to help with raising her family.  Once she was assured her family was okay, she started back on her educational journey where she obtained her Associate Degree in Arts in 2015 from Eastern Gateway College.  However, she was not finished, in 2019, she obtained her Bachelor of Social Work degree from Youngstown State University where she was on the Dean’s List.  During her course of studies, she never strayed from her hobbies of reading her books, gardening, cooking and caring for her grandchildren.

            She leaves to cherish her memories, her two daughters, Arte`a R. Clinkscale and Shanelle G. Clinkscale; her grandchildren, Arwan R. Clinkscale and Ja`Asia R. Johnson; and her brother, Terrance Baker.  Wanda was a caregiver for all her nieces and nephews, but helped rear her nephew, Carlton Baker, her nieces Donnitia Decembly and Carissa Baker; and a host of family and friends.

            She will be received at Heaven’s Gate by her parents; her brother, Donald Baker; her sisters, Linda Baker and Davida Baker; grandparents, Phoebe and Joseph Ash, Haywood Ellerbe, Albert Earl and Eugenia Pendleton Baker.

            Visitation will be Saturday, March 8, 2025 from 9:00 - 10:00 a.m. at the L. E. Black, Phillips and Holden Funeral Home.  Funeral services will follow at 10:00 a.m.

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