Velda (Austin) Baird

Velda Austin Baird, 95, of Idaho Falls, passed away June 19, 2023, at MorningStar Senior Living Center with her daughter and granddaughters by her side.

Velda was born February 11, 1928, in Cornish, Utah, to John Austin and Ida Kaziah Cole Austin. She grew up and attended schools in Preston, Idaho, and graduated from Preston High School.

On December 13, 1946, she married Harold Gale Baird in Preston, Idaho. Velda and Harold made their home in Idaho Falls where Velda worked for the Westbank Hotel.

She was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She enjoyed being with her family, camping and fishing, and gardening. She loved junk food.

Velda is survived by her son, Merlin Jay Baird of Idaho Falls, ID; daughter, Dixie Sayer of Idaho Falls, ID; 3 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her son, Dennis G. Baird; parents, John and Ida Austin; her husband, Harold Gale Baird; son-in-law, W. Randall Sayer; 5 brothers and 1 sister.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 24, 2023, at the Preston Cemetery, 1400 North 800 East, Preston, Idaho. The family will visit with friends Friday from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Wood Funeral Home, 273 N. Ridge Avenue.