James Lee Baird

james baird

September 13, 1961 ~ September 15, 2023

Born in: Warrensburg, Missouri
Resided in: Morrisonville, Illinois

James Lee Baird, 62, of Morrisonville, left this world on September 15, 2023.

Jim was born September 13, 1961, in Warrensburg, MO, the son of Bill and Jane (Traughber) Baird.  His early childhood was spent overseas in Spain and Morocco, while his father served in the United States Air Force.  After returning stateside, Jim grew up in and around Clarksdale, and graduated from Taylorville High School with the Class of 1979.

After graduation, Jim enlisted in the United States Army.  He was stationed at Camp Casey in Korea with the 2nd Infantry Division.  On February 27, 1982, Jim married Kayla Klinger at the First Presbyterian Church in Morrisonville.  Together they shared 41 years of marriage, and have raised their five children.

Jim was known for his work ethic.  Over the years he worked for Johnson Township, Christian County FS, Echlin Inc., owned and operated Baird’s Seamless Gutters, and was most recently an over the road truck driver.  Jim loved nature, fishing, hunting, and occasionally trespassing on his adventures.

He is survived by his parents, Bill and Jane of Taylorville; wife, Kayla of Morrisonville; children, J.R. (Tracy), Levi (Mady), Scott, Kurtis, and Tatum; grandson, Liam; siblings, Bonnie (David) Hoffert, Jeff (Susan), and Janis; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

No public services will be planned, as Jim never liked being the center of attention.

The family has entrusted Perfetti-Assalley Funeral Home in Morrisonville with arrangements.

Please visit www.assalleyfuneralhomes.com to share memories of Jim, or to offer condolences to his family.

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Guestbook

  1. Light a CandleJim always had a smile on his face, always took the time to stop and say Hi.
    May the Lord comfort you during this time.

  2. Light a CandleMy deepest condolences to Jim’s family! I know in school he was such a kind soul! Praying for Gods comfort at this time.

  3. Light a CandlePrayers of peace and comfort to you all. He isn’t suffering anymore and is in the hands of God. I’m so sorry for your loss 🙏🙏🙏

  4. Light a CandleKayla and family, You have our deepest sympathy and condolences on the passing of Jim. Our prayers are with you all as you go through this sad time.🙏🏼🙏🏼

  5. Light a CandleWords can not express my deepest heartfelt sympathy. Uncle Jim was one of the best men I was ever blessed to have in my life.

  6. Light a CandleLove you uncle jimmy I’ll always have the memories of swimming in the pond behind your house and fishing remember being on the farm and going sledding I’m comforted knowing your no long suffering and I’m sure grandma and aunt Edna we’re waiting for you at the gates

  7. It was a blessing to go to school with kind hearted Jim. I know he made an impact and was a good friend to many in our Class of 79. We will honor him at our next reunion along with other classmates gone too soon. I’m so very sorry for your loss.

  8. Light a CandleKayla we are so sorry about Jim. He always had a smile and always stopped and said hi when we ran into him. You and the kids are in our thoughts and prayers🙏

  9. Light a CandleJim was super fun when we were in school. Such a loving family. He will be missed dearly. Love and prayers to the family and to all who had the opportunity of crossing his path.

  10. I went school with jim. I remember that he was always so quiet. I’m sure no matter he was feeling he never complained.

  11. Light a CandleJane and Bill, my heart hurts for you. I wish I could be there to give you hugs. I have no words of wisdom. I just know parents aren’t supposed to bury their children. My deepest sympathy for you and your family. Love you.

  12. Was saddened when I heard Jim had passed. Friends in high school even double dated to prom once.
    Sorry life was cut short Jim will be missed. One of the good ones from the class of 79.
    Victor Mullins

  13. Light a CandleJim was always smiling whenever we ran into him. Our deepest condolences, Kayla to you, the kids and Jim’s family. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. 🙏 Pat and Diane Kane

  14. Light a CandleBill and family,
    I am so sorry for your loss. Please always remember the wonderful times with family, I’m sure there are so many and they were so special. Thank you always for a special Christmas favor for my mother, myself, and my family.
    Always indebted and Love Always,
    Stephen Reindl


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