Remembering Joe Baxter: A travelling Evangelist and Fighter for Homeowners' Rights in West Lothian

Please join our 'UK RAAC Campaign Group' Facebook page

The passing of Joe Baxter at the age of 83 marks the end of an era for the community of West Lothian, as they bid farewell to a man whose life was defined by unwavering determination, faith, and service. 

Joe Baxter's journey, from RAF pilot to Senior Contract Accountant to traveling Evangelist, is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of standing up for what is right.

Now, a grieving community stands united in its plea for a road to be dedicated in honor of the devoted servant of God and stalwart of the community.

Eighteen years ago, a travelling evangelist, Joe Baxter, found himself ensnared in the aftermath of a crippling financial debacle triggered by revelations of shoddy construction involving bubbly concrete in his residence. Baxter, a seasoned Senior Contract Accountant turned itinerant preacher of the Gospel, had once proudly served his nation as an RAF high-diver and technical engineer until a perforated eardrum permanently grounded him, leading to his medical discharge.

Mr. Baxter, along with ten other steadfast homeowners, defiantly contested the decision of West Lothian Council to demolish 86 homes in the Deans South Area. These homes had been sold to unsuspecting ex-council tenants without adequate compensation. While 76 homeowners succumbed to accepting meager payments, which barely scratched the surface of their homes' true value, Mr. Baxter, his wife Isabel, and a group of nine fellow homeowners refused to yield. They endured nearly two decades of hardship, living in homes condemned due to RAAC/Siporex roofing, in a community ghettoized by the council's neglect to maintain an area they sought to clear.  Yet, their resilience and unyielding resolve persevered, eventually leading to the construction of 10 new homes on the site by Springfield Homes. Their tenacity breathed new life into the community, offering a glimmer of hope for a fresh start to all those affected.

Tragically, Joe Baxter did not live to witness the realization of his dream—the handover of his new bungalow—as he passed away at the age of 83 from a debilitating blood cancer. This illness presented significant challenges in his later years. However, despite the obstacles he faced, Joe confronted each day with remarkable courage and acceptance, finding comfort in the resolution of the housing issue and the assurance that his beloved wife, Isabel, would receive the home they both yearned for.

Kerry, a neighbor of the Baxters and leader of the campaign for over two decades, expressed profound sorrow at the loss of a pillar of the community, someone who had been like a father to her. Throughout the arduous campaign for justice, she had often relied on Mr. Baxter for support and drew inspiration from his unwavering hope and steadfast prayers. His absence left a void in the hearts of many, yet his legacy of resilience and compassion continues to inspire those who knew him.

Joe Baxter was born in Glasgow in October 1940 and passed away at the age of 83, surrounded by his loving family. He married Isabella Sneddon in September 1962, and together they raised three children: Graham, Ruth, and Mark. Their family grew over the years to include eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Kerry fondly reminisced about her close relationship with Joe and Isabel, describing them as more than just neighbors—they were like family to her. She credited Joe and Isabel with giving her the strength and determination to continue fighting for justice. She vividly recalled the moment when Joe and Isabel resolved not to surrender their home and instead decided to fight for their rights. Now, after two decades of perseverance, their efforts have borne fruit with the construction of a new house. Kerry is determined to see justice served in honor of Joe and Isabel, carrying their legacy forward with unwavering resolve.  

Kerry beautifully expressed, "Joe was the kindest, most caring, and inspirational person I have ever met. I am incredibly grateful to have had him in my life. He was dearly loved by all who knew him. I would regularly see Joe and Isobel, and we supported each other in our fight for a new home and justice with WLC."

"As an Evangelist Christian, Joe always said a prayer and thanked the Lord for our lives and the food we shared when I visited for tea and biscuits. I found these moments very peaceful."

"Joe was wonderful, always smiling and ensuring everyone else was okay. He had a deep love for his garden and enjoyed watching the birds. We often chatted about nature and admired how beautiful his roses looked. Sitting in his garden with Isobel, enjoying the nice weather, was a cherished experience."

Mr. Baxter answered the call to preach the gospel full-time as an Evangelist in 1986. He quickly became known for his travels across the UK and beyond, spreading the message of Christ while remaining firmly rooted in the Christian Brethren Church, a member of the Gospel Hall in Livingston for 58 years.

During this period, he discovered a profound sense of purpose, finding true fulfillment in preaching, visiting, encouraging, and leading souls to Christ. He dedicated himself wholeheartedly to this mission until around the age of 75, when the limitations of an aging body began to restrict his ability to continue sharing the Gospel in the same capacity. However, his faithfulness to the God he served never wavered. Despite being unable to engage in extensive campaigns, he persisted in personal visits and continued preaching at occasional gospel meetings, remaining a steadfast beacon of faith and dedication until the end.

In 2020, Mr. Baxter received a diagnosis of MDS (myelodysplastic syndrome), requiring twice-weekly treatments at St. John's Hospital for blood and platelets. Despite the challenges posed by his illness, he remained steadfast in his treatments. However, a tragic fall in January 2024 altered the course of his journey, causing his treatments to lose their efficacy.

During this tumultuous period, Mr. Baxter witnessed the near completion of his new home, a beacon of hope amid his health struggles. Despite uncertainty about his own ability to inhabit the new space, he expressed profound gratitude to God that his wife would have a beautiful home to call her own, where she could live out the remainder of her days in comfort and peace. This selfless act of love and gratitude epitomized Mr. Baxter's unwavering faith and devotion to his family.

Ruth Robertson (58 yrs), his daughter, shared, "Dad fully comprehended that he might not be here to step into his new home, but he found solace in knowing that the matter had been settled and that Mum would receive the home she truly deserved. He harbored no concerns about that whatsoever. He is now at peace in his mansion in heaven."

A solemn service was held on 8th April 2024, for Mr. Baxter at Livingston Old Parish St. Andrew's Church in Deans, attended by around 300 mourners. The community has been deeply shaken by the loss of this paternal figure, whose presence was a guiding light to many. His legacy of faith, love, and selflessness will continue to resonate within the hearts of all who knew him.

Calls for a road to be dedicated to Mr. Baxter in acknowledgment of his significant contributions to the community and his unwavering 18-year struggle have gained momentum. Wilson Chowdhry, representing the UK RAAC Campaign Group, took the initiative to reach out to developers Springfield Housing. Following discussions with a senior figure, it has been agreed that a formal request will be drafted and submitted to the council for approval.

Mr. Chowdhry expressed, "We have initiated this campaign to rally support for honoring a man who dedicated his life in service to God and his community. His remarkable strength of character continues to inspire us all." The movement seeks to immortalize Mr. Baxter's legacy and ensure that future generations recognize and appreciate his enduring impact on the community.

Please sign our petition for Joe Baxter Way (here)

A poignant banner will be crafted in honor of Mr. Baxter to be utilized during ongoing protests for justice on behalf of thousands of other homeowners facing similar challenges. Though devoid of imagery, the banner will bear the following inscription:

Joe Baxter (RIP) October 1940 – March 2024 

Thank you for the inspiration! 

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing." 2 Timothy 4:7-8

This banner will serve as a powerful reminder of Mr. Baxter's unwavering determination and his commitment to righteousness. It symbolizes solidarity with those who continue to fight for justice, carrying forward Mr. Baxter's legacy of resilience and advocacy.