James L. Baird

James L. Baird was born in Midland, Mich. on October 28, 1938 to George and Virginia (Chase) Baird who predeceased him in 1985 and 1998. He graduated with life-long friends from Caro High School before serving with the United States Marine Corps and attending Bay City (Delta) College. His 20 years with the Michigan State Police included assignments from Trooper in Grand Haven, L’Anse and Flint to ES Team (SWAT) to Detective First Lieutenant in the Criminal Investigation Division.  

While in the MSP, Jim graduated from LCC and MSU, creating a Spartan fan who always supported the Alumni Association and Ralph Young Fund. He hunted and fished from Northern Labrador to Costa Rica while serving Eaton County in several positions; including chairman of the Planning Commission for 13 years. His private investigation company thrived due to the trusted efforts of several MSP retirees, and provided him with sufficient funds for considerable travel and entertaining friends on Anna Maria Island.  

Jim leaves behind the love of his life, his wife, Jeanne; his children, Leanna, Dianna, and Joanna; step-daughters, Andrea and Kimberly; grandchildren, Jon Eric (Yo The Doof!), Madalyn, Gunnar, Kaitlyn, and Jacob; step-grandchildren, Tyler and Taylor.  

He is predeceased by his son, Michael Baird.  

He leaves this world with many friends, many laughs, not many things not done, and few regrets.  Don’t cry because it’s over, laugh because it happened.

Two memorial services are planned.  The first was held at Terra Ceia Manor in Bradenton, Fla., at noon on Wednesday, January 30, 2019. The second will be held at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, at 12:00 noon on Saturday, February 9, 2019. 

If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Wounded Warriors, Crosswalk Teen Center in Charlotte, or Eaton Community Palliative Care.  

Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Jim on his tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.