Joya Cusumano Baker, age 96, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2026 while awaiting her morning cup of coffee. She was born September 15, 1929, in Brooklyn, NY and eventually made her way to Charleston and then Mt. Pleasant. Joya lived a long life filled with adventures that instilled in her a remarkable resilience.

She was preceded in death by her husband William Burneston Baker, whom she missed dearly, especially in her last years. Joya is survived by her sister Barbara Copanos, her five children (Bambi (Danny) Miller, James Murphy, Frank (Andrea) Newcomer, Pamela Ford and Marcia Newcomer), five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren and many, many wonderful friends and extended family members who helped her enjoy life to its fullest.

She will be remembered for her wit, humor, and the unfiltered outspokenness she never managed to temper, despite her love for the genteel city of Charleston and its residents.

A graveside service will be held at the Gregorie-Venning Cemetery on Venning Road at 10 am August 15, 2026.

Arrangements are by J. Henry Stuhr, Inc., Mount Pleasant Chapel. A memorial message may be sent to the family on our website at www.jhenrystuhr.com. 

_________________________________________________________