‘James Bond’ Actor Dies At 89 – Tributes Pour In

Veteran actor Joe Don Baker, known for his roles in multiple “James Bond” films, passed away on May 7, 2025. His family announced the sad news earlier this week. He was 89 years old.

His orbituary reads:

Joe Don was a beacon of kindness and generosity. His intellectual curiosity made him a voracious reader, inspiring a great love of nature and animals, particularly cats. Throughout his life, Joe Don touched many lives with his warmth and compassion, leaving an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him

As of now, the cause of Baker’s death has yet to be disclosed.

Joe Don Baker’s Funeral Details Revealed

Getty

Meanwhile, a funeral service to honor Baker’s life is scheduled on May 20, 2025, at Utter McKinley Mortuary, Mission Hills, California. Friends and family of the “Walking Tall” actor are expected to gather and celebrate the extraordinary life he led.

Joe Don’s 11 year marriage produced no offspring. He is survived by relations in his native Groesbeck, who will forever cherish his memory. He is mourned by a small but very close circle of friends who will miss him eternally.

Baker was born on February 12, 1936, Groesbeck, Texas. He was raised by his aunt after his mother, Edna, passed away when he was 12.

The late actor became famous for his role as Curly Bonner in “Junior Bonner” (1972) and as Molly in “Charley Varrick” (1973), per Hollywood Reporter.

Baker appeared in three “James Bond” films, portraying the arms dealer Brad Whitaker in “The Living Daylights” (1987), and later taking on the role of CIA agent Jack Wade in “GoldenEye” (1995) and “Tomorrow Never Dies” (1997).

He was married to Maria Dolores Rivero-Torres from 1969 until their divorce in 1980.

Tributes Pour In For The Actor

Getty

Meanwhile, fans remembered the late actor as they paid tribute to his legacy. One fan wrote, “Rest well, Mr. Baker. Texas gained a shining star.”

Another commented, “A great larger than life person who always stood out in every movie he was in. From that tall, imposing figure to that distinctive southern drawl, Joe Don Baker no doubt left an impressive legacy.”

A fan also added, “Thank you for the laughs and the great acting on the bond films. My regrets the family and friends,” while another chimed in, “An original, irreplaceable. His work was wonderful.”