ORANGE BEACH — The Baldwin County Public School System and Orange Beach Elementary School lost one of its best Thursday night when Steve Baker, principal of Orange Beach Elementary since 2001, passed away after a fight with cancer.

Baker joined Baldwin County Public Schools in 1982 as a math and physical education teacher at Rosinton School. He later taught at Foley High School, Foley Middle School and Gulf Shores Middle School. In 1994 he was accepted into the Baldwin Schools Administrative Intern Program, a program that helps teachers transition into administration. In 1998, he became principal of Gulf Shores Middle School and in 2001, the principal of Orange Beach Elementary, the office he held until his death.

“We have lost an excellent educator and dear friend,” said JaNay Dawson, Interim Superintendent. “I have known Steve for more than 30 years. His heart and soul were all about the students at his school and in this school system. He will be sorely missed. Our deepest sympathies are extended to his family."

Arrangements have not been announced.