William Richard "Dick" Baird, Jr.

William Richard (Dick) Baird, Jr., 88, died Tuesday, June 27, 2023 in Alabaster, Alabama, where he resided and was lovingly cared for by his daughter and son-in-law, Doreen and Lynn Ray, following the passing of his wife, Darla, in July 2022.

Dick, as he was known to his family and friends, was born August 30, 1934 in Phoenix, Arizona to William Richard Baird, Sr. and Gertrude Taylor. He was the oldest of five children - McCray Sherman, Myrna Green (deceased), Ernest, and Anthony (deceased). After the death of his mother, and at the age of 12, he became a leader and caring advocate for his younger siblings as they moved throughout Arizona, including the Love Lake Ranch, Snowflake, and Pomerene.

He graduated from Benson High School in 1953, and shortly after married Eileen East. They had six children together - Deborah (Doug) Hardy, Doreen (Lynn) Ray, Luraly (Brian) Warner, Jayne (Paul) Pulsipher, Stuart (Marjie) Baird, and Rick (Jo) Baird. After they divorced, he married Darla Mills, who had three children - Gilbur Dean (deceased), Tammy (Jeff) Brewer, and Lori Baker. He and Darla had one son together, Will (Evelyn) Baird.

Dick was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Of the many callings he held throughout his life, teaching the gospel doctrine class was one of his favorites. He lived a life of selfless service, and spent many years of dedication ministering to members of his wards in Show Low and Taylor.

Dick loved the game of basketball. During his life, he coached, sponsored, and played with a countless number of teams, and he played basketball several times a week well into his 70’s.

He ran a successful janitorial business and was known throughout the White Mountains for his work ethic and impeccable cleaning services. Ever a stickler for details, he continued to work alongside his crew until he retired in 2019.

The Baird family is grateful for the many kindnesses they have received from their community of friends since Dick’s passing, and are especially grateful for the prayers offered on their behalf.

A viewing will be held from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M., Friday, July 14, 2023, at Owens Livingston Mortuary - White Mountain Chapel, 320 N. 9th Street in Show Low, AZ.  An additional viewing will be from 9:00 A.M. to 9:45 A.M., Saturday, July 15, 2023, at the Show Low Stake Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1401 W. Deuce of Clubs in Show Low, AZ. The funeral will immediately follow and begin at 10:00 A.M.. The concluding service and interment will follow at the Show Low Cemetery where Dick will be laid to rest alongside his Forever Sweetheart, Darla.