Elijah Shelly Baldwin

Celebration of Life

Elijah Shelly Baldwin Jr.
December 26, 1952 – July 20, 2025

Born on December 26, 1952, in Weimar, Texas, Elijah Shelly Baldwin Jr. was a cherished late Christmas gift to his loving parents, Elijah Shelly Baldwin Sr. and Lillie Mae Baldwin. To all who knew and loved him, he was simply “Bobby.”

Bobby attended Karl Downs and later Weimar High School, where he excelled both on the football field and in music, playing several instruments. From a young age, he embraced hard work, spending summers in Houston earning money and building a strong work ethic that would define his life.

A devoted member of Greater Weimar Church of God in Christ, Bobby served faithfully as a Choir Director and Sunday School teacher alongside his mother and father. His love for God was unwavering, and he could speak passionately about any book of the Bible. Music was his joy—he led a gospel band called The Gospel Crusaders and filled his home with the sounds of gospel, R&B, and blues.

Bobby was also a gifted writer, penning short stories and poems that reflected his childhood and deep reflections. After studying the paint industry, he became a master color matcher, earning respect and admiration throughout his 45+ year career at PPG, where he retired with humility and pride.

Above all, Bobby’s greatest treasure was his family. Whom he loved unconditionally and was always the first to show up when someone needed him—despite his own health challenges, he never stopped checking in on others.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and faith, cherished by his devoted wife of 51 years, Becky Baldwin of Houston; his beloved mother-in-law, Tilla Barker; and his children: Elijah III, Tilla, Lillian (affectionately known as “the favorite”), and Thomas (with wife Rena of Fort Leonard Wood, MO); and his sisters, Vivian Burley and Beverly Baldwin of Missouri City and God daughter Terrie Burley.

Bobby’s pride and joy were his grandchildren: Tristen, Laila, Zoe, Elijah IV, Kennedy, Arthur, Katelynn, Kassady, London, Journee (also “the other favorite”), and Thomas Jr. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends—many of whom he considered family.

He is preceded in death by his father, mother, grandparents and aunts.

Bobby’s life was a beautiful symphony of faith, family, music, and love. His memory will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.

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