Jermaine Arnell ("P Jaye the Principal") Baker

Jermaine Arnell Baker, lovingly known to many as “John Boy” and throughout the music community as “P Jaye the Principal,” passed away at the age of 44 in Phoenix, Arizona.

Jermaine was born in Dayton, Ohio to Carmel Owensby and Arnold Baker, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Arnishka Baker; his maternal grandparents, James and Mildred Owensby; his paternal grandparents, Annie E. Baker and Lucious Baker; his best friend, Marquel Dalcoe; his close cousin, Brandon Bailey; his aunts, Cora Tanner, Eddie Baker, Jason Pierson, Diane Averette, and Beverly Kendricks; and his uncles, Gary Owensby, Terry Owensby, Michael Owensby, Steve Owensby, and Charles Baker.

Jermaine was a man full of vision, talent, charisma, and heart. Whether through music, business, family, faith, or friendship, he left a lasting impact on everyone who crossed his path. An ’80s baby through and through, Jermaine loved music, laughter, sports, and was a huge fan of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. He was also a dedicated fan of the Dallas Cowboys — something family and friends will always remember about him.

Jermaine grew up rooted in faith and community. He attended Open Door Outreach Center under the leadership of Pastor Mary D. Lawrence and also attended House of God Church Incorporated, where he was deeply impacted by the late James E. Embry Jr., whom he loved dearly.

He was also a lover of sports and enjoyed playing throughout his youth. Jermaine played for Meadowdale School of Dayton, the College Park Youth Program, and Avondale High School, where his competitive spirit and love for teamwork shined brightly.

Known throughout Arizona as a pioneer in the city’s music and entertainment scene, Jermaine built a name and legacy through passion, dedication, and leadership. In 2014, he founded Infinite Promotions, a movement that brought together artists, creatives, and supporters throughout the city. Jermaine had a gift for recognizing talent and creating opportunities for others. Through Infinite Promotions, he helped shine a light on many rising artists in Arizona and built a respected platform within the entertainment community.

As “P Jaye the Principal,” Jermaine performed alongside artists such as Young Dro, YG, and Larry June, while also collaborating with many influential figures throughout Arizona’s music culture. To Jermaine, music was more than entertainment — it was connection, motivation, and purpose. His influence reached far beyond the stage, and his impact on the city will continue to be felt for years to come.

Above all else, Jermaine loved his family deeply. He leaves behind five beloved children: Mekhi Baker, Aliviah Baker, Amarii Baker, Zacarii Baker, and Zayedn Baker, who were the pride and joy of his life.

He is survived by his loving mother, Carmel Owensby; his siblings, Timothy (Jessica) Bolton, Chermil (Ryan) Balbalosa, Dequavius Baker, and Jamill Baker; bonus sister Cloria Miller, and his cousin Corwin Perdue, who was more like a brother to him.

He leaves behind a village of people who loved him deeply, including the mothers of his children, Giselle Simon and Sylvia Thompson, and a special friend, Kyle Buggs.

Jermaine also leaves behind his cherished aunts, Connie Owensby, Carol Owensby, Audrey Wright, Diane Board, and Katrina Winfield; his lifelong best friends, Micheal Batiste and Javee Millender; his cousin, Latesha Wright, with whom he shared a special bond; his beloved nephew, Cameron Balbalosa; and his nieces, Ryan Balbalosa, Destynee Hilson, Jhaylee Baker, and Amaree Jones, who lovingly knew him as “Uncle Baby.”

Along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, lifelong friends, supporters, and loved ones, Jermaine’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Jermaine will be remembered for his ambition, his loyalty, his laughter, his love for music and family, and the way he brought people together. His energy was unforgettable, his presence was powerful, and his legacy will continue to live on through his children, his family, his music, and the countless lives he touched.

“Your voice may be silent, but your impact will echo forever.” Rest peacefully,

Jermaine. Forever loved. Forever missed.

Funeral Service 11 am Saturday, May 23, 2026 at House of Wheat Funeral Home, 2107 N. Gettysburg Ave, Dayton, OH. Visitation 9 am- 11 am. Family will receive friends 10 am- 11 am. Interment 11 am Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at Shiloh Park Cemetery.

LIVESTREAM LINK: http://www.facebook.com/Stream-All-Services-102620271622310/

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