James Baird

James Edward Baird, escaped this mortal realm on May 22nd, 2021 at the age of 75.  He is preceded in death by his parents Raymond and Edith Baird. He is survived by his wife Reba Baird; his children: Danielle and Jeff Brock, Tamara Montgomery, Chandler and Shauna Montgomery, and Candice and Tommy Rincon; and amazing grandchildren: Ale and Ben Brock; Chester, Lukas, and Carly Montgomery; Hunter, Jordan, and Rory Rincon. He is also survived by his siblings; Florence Bassler, Barbara Pierce, Char Minnich, and Charles Baird.

He would like you to know that his work here is done. He received a sort of offer he couldn’t refuse, for an appointment from which he will not be returning. He received a bonus, a reunion with family and friends he has not seen in a while. His new mission allows him to listen to music, dance, laugh, and love. The food is amazing and he will never gain an ounce. He’s left detailed instructions to his wife, kids, and grand kids to celebrate his life here. Low adherence to this instruction will not be tolerated.

According to legend, men wanted to be him and women wanted to be with him. He would walk three miles barefoot in the snow, uphill just to get to school. He would survive strictly off of Little Debbie snack cakes if allowed, and attempted to do so just by the hidden wrappers alone that were found. Mr. Goodbar candy was often a special treat. He loved the idea of aliens and solving mysteries. He enjoyed an ice cold Corona, and loved the sweet cool jams of Jimmy Buffet and Pink Floyd. He liked his coffee the way he saw himself: strong and too hot for you. And the tale of Red Bridge Road and its secrets still remain a mystery with the grand kids, but is known to create a bond that is unbreakable.

He served several years in the United States Navy on USS Keppler (DD765). He received a National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with 01 Bronze Star, and Combat Action Ribbon. His discipline and patriotism he learned in the Navy never left, as friends and family will attest.

James was a highly educated man and lived his life through adventures, and always wanted to get off the grid. He loved the water, camping, swimming with the dolphins, and ghost hunting. He spent annual vacations back home in Michigan, trips to Disney World, and on cruise ships. He would often sneak his kids into arcades, go bike riding, and light the block with fireworks.

We will be celebrating James through a “Celebration of Life” for close friends and family. In lieu of flowers please make donations in his memory to the Chaves County Cancer Fund who helped him in his time of need and to pay it forward.