Dates
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Sharon Baird, who left this world on July 21, 2025, at the age of 84, due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease. Born on July 31, 1940, in Sterling City, Texas, Linda was a beacon of love and laughter to all who knew her.
Linda was the beloved daughter of Mildred Askey and Paul Knieff. She was blessed with three beautiful sisters, Toni Bowyer and husband Denis, and Vickie Cope and husband Bobby who have many stories to share about their childhood to bring them comfort during this time. She was preceded in death by her dear parents and her beloved husband, Alton Baird and her cherished siblings, sister Paula Franklin and brother Larry Wayne Knieff, and nephew Mark Franklin. Linda's spirit now joins them in eternal peace.
On March 2, 1958, Linda married Alton, and together they celebrated a beautiful journey of 61 years. Throughout her life, she was not only a dedicated wife and mother but also a proud member of the community. Linda was a graduate of Lake View High School, where she was known for her radiant smile and kind heart, serving as a cheerleader and being honored as "Most Beautiful."
Professionally, Linda served as a telephone operator for GTE, Secretary of the Dietary for Shannon Hospital, but her passion and favorite position was as Payroll Supervisor for Levi Strauss and Company, where her meticulous nature and strong work ethic shone brightly. She shared a friendship with Doris Glasscock and Marilyn McMillan which has endured. Beyond her career, Linda was deeply involved in her community and was an active member of the Catholic Church. Her faith was a guiding light in her life and a source of comfort during challenging times.
Linda had a passion for music, which filled her home with joy and laughter. She had a unique ability to bring people together with her infectious sense of humor, often leaving an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to share in her company.
Linda is survived by her loving children, Debra Baird Sosolik and her husband Bobby, Alton Todd Baird, and Robert Paul Baird. She was the proud grandmother of Corey Speck and his wife Stacye, Morganne Speck, Jordan Baird, Odessa Baird and his wife Carrie, Cheyenne Baird, Reese Baird, Grayson Baird, Logan Speck, Victoria Speck, Briley Speck, Christabella Gonzalez, Kinlee Baird, Tristan Martinez, Eleanor Baird, Evelyn Tietze, and Kelly Custer. Two very special nieces Lindy Attinello and husband John and Retha Harris and husband Randy. Each of them carries a piece of her spirit within them, and her legacy will live on through their loving memories.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, an organization that was close to Linda’s heart. The family would also like to express their gratitude to Jim Raines, LVN, at the Springs for the compassionate care he gave our mother during her stay there. To the staff of the 6th floor of Shannon Hospital for their emotional support and care during mother’s final days, and finally to Dr. Vicki Forlano, a physician like no other. Your exemplary care of our mother during these final years made it easier for us to understand her journey.
Linda Sharon Baird will be profoundly missed, but her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched. May she rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love of her family and the sweet melodies of music she so cherished.
Visitation will be at 4:00 p.m., Wednesday July 23, 2025 at Harper Funeral Home, 2606 Southland Blvd. The Rosary and vigil service will follow visitation at 6:00 p.m. in the chapel.
A funeral mass to celebrate Linda’s remarkable life will be held at St. Thomas Catholic Church, 404 W 7th St, in Miles, Texas on July 24, 2025, at 10:00 am. Burial will immediately follow in the Miles Cemetery. Friends and family are invited to join in commemorating her beautiful journey and the joy she brought to our lives.
“Not all who wander are lost”
Family and friends may share their condolences and sign the online register book at www.harper-funeralhome.com