Rickey Ray “Rick” Baird, 75, Carthage, Missouri, passed away early Monday morning, September 20, 2021, at Freeman West Hospital, Joplin, Missouri. Rick was born November 9, 1945, in Carthage, the son of Raymond Baird and Bonnie (DeMott) Baird. He was a 1964 graduate of Carthage High School. Rick married Glenda Pitman on June 20, 1964, in Carthage. He worked for the Missouri State Highway Patrol for 32 years in Southwest Missouri, retiring in 2000 in Jasper County as a sergeant. Rick enjoyed hunting and fishing, loved his dogs Max and Babe, but most of all, loved spending time with his family. He attended the Sheep Shed church in Neosho, Missouri.
Survivors include two sons, Jeff Baird (Donette), Lamar, Missouri, and Jason Baird, Neosho, Missouri; three grandchildren, Jessica Baird Stansberry (Jordan), Josh Baird, and Jamie Baird; three great-grandchildren, Riley Cochran, Jade Cochran, and Josie Vanderslice; two brothers, Mike Baird (Connie), and Brad Baird (Traci); a sister-in-law, Trish Kisling (LeRoy); and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Glenda Baird; and a brother, Pat Baird.
Memorial services will be held 1 pm, Friday, September 24, 2021, at the Carthage Church of the Nazarene. Memorial gifts are suggested to Carthage Humane Society in care of Knell Mortuary. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.
