J. Baker, 82; Got Emmys for Work in Local TV

James H. “Jimmie” Baker, a television producer and director who won several local Emmy awards for his work in the 1950s and ‘60s, has died. He was 82.

Baker died Feb. 3 at a convalescent hospital in Santa Monica of a heart attack after suffering two strokes in January.

A native of Oklahoma, Baker began his career in the entertainment business at the age of 15. A tap dancer, he appeared in several talent shows, including “Major Bowes’ Original Amateur Hour,” a popular national radio program, winning a spot in one of Bowes’ national touring companies. Through the summer, he was paid $25 a week plus expenses.

His college education in Oklahoma was interrupted by World War II. Baker was drafted into the Army Air Forces, where he entertained the troops as part of a special services unit. He danced and led a swing band called Corporal Jimmy Baker and the Men of the Air.

After the war, Baker returned to what is now Oklahoma State University to complete his degree. He taught junior high school social sciences after graduation and at night continued to lead a swing band, which he formed in college.

After the band split up during a road trip that ended in Las Vegas, Baker moved to Hollywood to try his luck in show business.

He found work with ABC, initially as a mailroom employee, but moved up the ladder quickly and was soon handling radio production chores. By 1950, he was producing and directing television programs.

They included “Stars of Jazz,” a show devoted to jazz music, which won a local Emmy in 1956. A decade later, Baker brought former New York Giants and Los Angeles Rams football star Roosevelt Grier to television in a talk show format. Grier’s show won local Emmys in 1968 and 1969.

Baker is survived by his wife of 54 years, Sue Carlton Baker, and their son James C. Baker. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday at Beverly Hills Presbyterian Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to the Chancel Choir at Beverly Hills Presbyterian Church.