Story by Kyle Ennis
Jadie Ruth Wehe, UNC Student
“She is like a beam of sunshine and I think that’s so true, her smile just radiates.”
Graceanne Boone, UNC Alum
“I feel like she was someone worth getting to know and like extending an invite to dinner at my house.”
Cole Baker, Sherita Baker’s Husband
“Every single person that she talks to smiles just, a big ole just like seeing your grandma smile.”
Wehe
“You can hear her whistle from a mile away.”
Kyle Ennis, UNC Media Hub Reporter
“The journey for unc crossing guard Sherita Baker wasn’t easy, but she’s found open arms and an extended family in Chapel Hill.”
Sherita Baker, UNC Crossing Guard
“My grandma I guess interjected herself, and her and my mom were shot and killed…God needed her more than I did, and that’s okay, you just have to live your life and try and be strong and keep going.”
Ennis
“Even in the toughest times, Baker sees beyond.”
Sherita Baker
“I feel like God put me here to make people smile, and to put a smile on people’s faces and that’s what I think I’m here for and what I try to do every day.”
Ennis
“The person she is, attributes to her biggest role model.”
Cole Baker
“It’s kinda like she’s a mean ole lady, but she’s not a mean ole lady, she kinda comes off that way, and you can’t just help but laugh.”
Sherita Baker
“But its like cause she’s honest she don’t sugar coat things.”
Ennis
“Baker’s paternal grandmother and grandfather raised her with her two siblings and two cousins, teaching honesty, but most importantly positivity.”
Shertia Baker
“When I was a kid I was really shy, really quiet, kinda standoffish.”
Ennis
“Maybe the greatest aspect of irony for someone who touches the hearts of the entire community.”
Sherita Baker
“Over seventy students came together under no formal organization to create this card and purchase this gift on behalf of the UNC community. I always appreciate your upbeat spirit, Happy Valentine’s Day. To the crosswalk lady who said have a great day sweetheart, thank you ma’am I needed it this morning.”
Ennis
Maybe all you need is a smile and a hug in the morning. I’m Kyle Ennis, reporting.
