The Honorable Cary Baldwin
Former Probate Judge of Chambers County, Alabama
The Honorable Cary Baldwin, 64, of Daphne, Alabama, formerly of Valley, Alabama, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026, at Thomas Hospital in Fairhope, Alabama, following a courageous six-year battle with cancer. His strength, faith, and unwavering love for his family carried him through each day with grace and determination.
Cary was born on August 16, 1961, in Rome, Georgia. From an early age, he embodied the values that would define his life—hard work, integrity, kindness, and a deep sense of responsibility to others. He graduated from Americus High School in Americus, Georgia and continued his education at Southern Union State Community College and Auburn University, where he studied accounting.
For 35 years, Cary proudly owned and operated Baldwin ACE Home Center in Lanett, Alabama, where he built more than a business—he built lifelong relationships. Known for his honesty, generosity, and willingness to help anyone in need, Cary became a trusted and familiar presence in the community. His dedication to service extended beyond his business when he answered the call to public office, serving as Probate Judge of Chambers County, Alabama. In that role, he served with fairness, humility, and a genuine care for the people he represented.
In 2019, Cary and his wife Marla made the decision to move to Daphne, Alabama, to be closer to their children and growing families. There, Cary found joy in working alongside his son Andrew at Super Roofers, cherishing not only the work but the time spent together. Yet it was in his role as “Dad” and especially “Grandaddy” where Cary’s heart truly lived. His grandchildren were his greatest pride and constant source of joy, and he treasured every moment spent with them.
A man of deep and abiding faith, Cary attended Eastern Shore Baptist Church in Daphne and was a longtime member of Langdale Methodist Church in Valley. His faith guided his life and his actions, shaping the compassion and generosity he showed to everyone he met. He was a pillar in his community, serving as longtime chairman of the Chambers County Republican Party, a member of the Chambers County Industrial Development Board, and a member of Valley Kiwanis Club and the local Masonic Lodge. Whether through leadership roles or quiet acts of kindness, Cary was always ready to step in, lend a hand, and make a difference.
Cary’s life was defined by love – love for his family, his friends, and his community. He is survived by his devoted wife of over 40 years, Marla Goodwin Baldwin, whose love and support were his constant strength; his children, Elizabeth (Cole) Smith and Andrew (Peyton) Baldwin; and his cherished grandchildren, Stella, Layla, and Emma Smith, and Reese, Colton, and Beau Baldwin (due in September 2026). He is also survived by his siblings, Butch (Donna) Baldwin, Phil (Libby) Baldwin, Mark (Nina) Padgett, Ann Fields, Marie (Tom) Erwin, and Laura (Lee) Pitts; his brother-in-law Jeff (Jenny) Goodwin and sister-in-law Melinda Edwards; and two special nephews, Chuck and Keith Fields, who were like brothers to him, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, Walter L. Baldwin, Sr.; his mother, Mildred P. Baldwin; his twin brother, Gary Baldwin, and his granddaughter, Brinley Baldwin.
Though his passing leaves an immeasurable void, Cary’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the values he instilled, and the love he gave so freely. He will be remembered as a man of honor, quiet strength, and a servant’s heart: A man who always put others before himself and lived a life that truly mattered.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at 1:00 PM (Eastern Time) at Langdale Methodist Church in Valley, Alabama, with visitation from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM prior to the service. The service will be officiated by Reverend Todd Owen and Reverend Chuck Goodwin.
Flowers may be sent to the church. But in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Langdale Methodist Church.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Hughes Funeral Home, 26209 Pollard Road, Daphne, AL, is assisting the family. Online condolences for the family may be made at www.hughesfh.com.
What a wonderful life Cary led. He always made time for others, especially those in need. He spent his life serving others, first his mother, my grandmother, Mildred Baldwin, then later his wife, Marla, and their children and grandchildren. And just about everyone else he had the opportunity to met and come in contact with. You will be missed by many here, Cary, and I know you loved each every one of us that do miss you, but I know the company you’re keeping now, and because of that, I know you’re exactly where you want to be(and where all Believers in Christ will be one day, sooner or later).
He was a special person, my little brother and I always loved him!❤️
I am so glad I was able to meet Cary and work with his wife, Marla. I only knew him for seven years, but his love for others and commitment to family will always be remembered.
I truly miss our conversations and thank you for all the opportunities that you have given me over the years rest in peace, my brother and Friend the love we shared with carry me for our lifetime.. Keith Scott and family,