John Keith Baird

John Keith Baird was joyfully reunited with his Savior, Jesus Christ, on May 24, 2025, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer's and Dementia. His final days were filled with love, faith, and the enduring presence of his family.

John was born on January 1, 1963, in Hartford, Connecticut, to Arthur (Ted) Nile Baird and Carol Ann King Baird. His early years were spent traveling the country, looking out the back of the station wagon as a military child. He later settled in Moore, Idaho, where he made lasting memories and began developing the friendly and determined character he carried throughout his life. A proud “mama's boy,” John was adored by his mother, caring for her faithfully until the end of her life. He was her champion.

John served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Indiana and later honorably served in the Marine Reserves. His love for the Gospel and the youth of the Church guided much of his service as a Scoutmaster, Cub Scout leader, and mentor to countless young people. Even in the final stages of his illness when words were difficult, John's love for the youth shone through.

John met the love of his life, Christine, in May of 1987. Their whirlwind romance led to an engagement just two months later, and they were sealed for time and all eternity in the Idaho Falls, Idaho Temple on September 12, 1987. Together, they built a family grounded in love, faith, and resilience. In time, John and Christine welcomed their daughter and four sons, whom he adored. To all who knew him, he was first and foremost a doting dad and devoted husband. Truly, John's family was the joy of his life.

John worked tirelessly to provide for his family, earning his Master's Degree in social work while juggling two jobs and a young family. His trademark perseverance and deep compassion eventually led him to open his own practice with Christine faithfully by his side. John's career as a social worker was more than a profession–it was his calling. He found purpose in helping the youth, elderly, the less fortunate, and anyone in need. He genuinely loved people–John never met a stranger. John was an active member of Toastmasters, Scouting, and his church community. John found joy in serving, mentoring, and lifting others in every chapter of his life.

John is preceded in death by his beloved son, Andrew John (A.J.) Baird; his nephew, Rye Burch; his parents; his brothers, Roye and Arthur "Nile" Baird; and brother-in-law, Bill Orchard. He is survived by his devoted wife, Christine Orchard Baird; his daughter, Tasja (Anthony) Jackson of Ammon, Idaho; his sons, Zachary (Rebekah) Baird of Watford City, North Dakota, Rylee (McKenzy) Baird of Idaho Falls, Idaho, and Connor (Alina Marthis) Baird of Lewiston, Idaho. He is also survived by his treasured grandchildren: Madicyn, Traydyn, Kaceyn, Quintyn, Spencer, Nolyn, Lawsyn, Emma, Lillianna, Delilah, and Ronan—as well as many siblings, in-laws, nieces, and nephews who will carry his legacy of love and service forward.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 31, 2025, at the Iona Stake Center, 7555 N. 55th E., Idaho Falls, Idaho. The family will visit with friends Friday from 6:30-8 p.m. at Wood Funeral Home East Side, 963 S. Ammon Road, and Saturday from 10-10:45 a.m. prior to services at the church. Interment will be in the Iona Cemetery. John will be laid to rest beside his cherished son, A.J.

John's life was a testament to faith, hard work, and unwavering love for his family. He will be deeply missed.