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Celebration of Life: 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home
Gathering Time: 1-3 p.m. on Saturday at the funeral home
James Ralph Baird, age 79, of Flora, Illinois, passed away early Thursday morning, May 30, 2024, at Clay County Hospital.
He was born May 23, 1945, in Marion County, the son of Ralph R. and Blanche (Norwood) Baird.
Jim had worked alongside his father at Baird’s Market in Marion County, selling produce and Christmas trees. He began his teaching career with Flora Schools in 1967, retiring in 2000, after 33 memorable years. He was inducted into the Retired Teachers Hall of Fame in July 2020, leaving behind him a great legacy. Jim always looked forward to the annual faculty card games that had begun in 1972, which he hosted at his home for several years. He had a passion for tennis, golf, and guitars. As the co-founder and lead guitarist of the band "Impending Shame," Jim showcased his musical talent. His grandkids were his pride and joy, and he loved taking his kids and grandkids on unforgettable trips to Disneyworld.
He is survived by his daughter and son: Angela and husband Tyler Vincent of Iuka and Jordan Baird and Brittine Denoncour of Flora; 5 grandchildren: Max, Willie, Annie, and Ellie Vincent, and Joplyn Baird; 2 nephews: Andy Fehrenbacher and Jeff Fehrenbacher; several cousins and friends; and the many students he shared his classroom with during his 33 years of teaching.
He was preceded in death by his parents: Ralph and Blanche Baird, and Violet (Alderson) Baird who raised Jim since he was 6 years old.
A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora. A gathering time will be held from 1-3 p.m. on Saturday at the funeral home. Memorial donations are suggested to either the Flora Academic Foundation or Frog Island Tennis Association, and these will be accepted through the funeral home. To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com
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Mr. Baird was a teacher that most of the kids thought was pretty "cool". That he was. R.I.P. ....and Rock On!!!
Mr. Baird was one of my favorite teachers and he influenced my decision to become an educator. A wonderful human being. My deepest condolences to his children and grandchildren.
I recall Mr. Baird as a good teacher of political science. He also seemed to be respectful, encouraging, and treated students as important people. Not until later in life did I begin appreciate and understand political science, remembering his teaching us this subject. Thanks for your influence, Mr. Baird.
Jim will be missed. Great teacher and still shared many moments at Walmart. RIP my friend.
Prayers for all families. He was a wonderful teacher and man. He will be missed.
Condolences for the entire family. Mr. Baird was not only my favorite teacher in HS, but was also the most impactful. His fierce debate classes set me up for success in the real world and I used what I learned in his classes through my professional years. What a loss, but he helped so many. I’m confident he is in a much better place. RIP Mr. Baird.
We are so sorry that you have lost your dad, grandpa and uncle. We've all lost a former teacher and friend. God bless each of you during this time. We are sending prayers, thoughts, love and hugs. ❤️
Sorry for the families loss. He was one of the good ones.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. He was 1 of my favorite teachers.
My heart breaks for you all - lost my Dad in 2017 and I still miss him every day. Will be thinking of all of you in the days to come and praying that God wrapped his arms around all of you. ✝️🙏❤️
Best Teacher Ever!!! Prayers for the family. RIP Mr. Baird❣️
He was a great teacher, we both have fond memories of Senior Political Science with Mr. Baird. Prayers for his friends and family. God Bless and may he rest in peace. Memory Eternal
I was so saddened to hear you had passed. You were one of the best teachers to ever teach at Flora High School. You will be missed. Praying for your family.
I’m so Sorry for your loss! Prayers going up for the Family!!!
Jim and I were friends for 56 years. That’s a lot of memories, all of them good and most of them unique. He was one of a kind.
We are so very sorry for your loss. Praying for all the family. Mr. Baird was such a dedicated teacher.
Mr. Baird was one of the best and most influential teachers I ever had. I had him for US History and Senior year Political Science. A lot was learned preparing for the debates, requiring everyone to understand both sides of a topic, and work as a team with respect for each other. Thank you and RIP.
We are very sorry for the loss of your dad!!! Jim was a great teacher and fun to be working with!!! You have our deepest sympathy!!!
I only knew Mr. Baird later in life, but he was always a joy to talk with. He loved showing off pictures of his grandkids and always spoke lovingly about his family. Truly a good man.
Angela and family, We were saddened to hear of your father’s passing! Thinking of you with love and prayers, Vicky and Larry James
Angela and Family…I am so sorry to learn of your father’s passing! God bless you all as you cope with this great loss!
To Jordan and family. I’m so sorry for your loss. Rest easy Mr. Baird.
Frank & Bright Funeral Home
and Cremation Services
500 North Main Street
Flora, Illinois 62839
Phone : (618) 662-2141
Fax: (618) 662-4600
Email: [email protected]
