Marilyn Baird

Dearly loved and admired, Marilyn Baird was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend. She added much to the lives around her with her loving spirit, giving nature and encouraging words. Family was by far Marilyn’s greatest joy and in them she found those who knew and loved her best. She savored much, enjoyed the company of good friends, and held fast to living a life of faith filled with honesty and respect. Although she will be deeply missed, the memories Marilyn leaves behind are a one-of-a-kind legacy to be forever treasured. Born on September 30, 1937, in the close-knit community of Vicksburg, Michigan, the birth of Marilyn Eva was a most welcome event in the lives of her parents, Pete and Bernice (Weimer) Holt. It was an eventful year altogether in the nation as The Golden Gate Bridge was brought to completion in San Francisco, California. Aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart’s disappearance that year continues to remain a mystery and the explosion of the Hindenburg marked the end of the airship era. Although life continued to be a struggle for families, the repercussions of the Great Depression were slowly coming to an end and hope was on the horizon. The third of five children, Marilyn grew up alongside her brothers, Ted, Don, and Tom. Sadly, her one and only sister Elizabeth Ann, passed away at birth before Marilyn was ever born. To support their thriving household, Marilyn’s father worked for Oliver Farm Equipment while her mother worked at Kellogg’s. Having enjoyed a childhood typical of the times, Marilyn graduated from Vicksburg High School where she played the trumpet in the high school band. She also loved playing the piano and later went on to play for several area churches. Marilyn met the love of her life, David Baird while in high school. A friend of her brother, Ted, he informally introduced the two and from there a dating relationship soon began. Before long the young couple found themselves in love and on April 22, 1955, they were happily joined in marriage before family and friends at Fulton Congregational Church. To their union they were blessed with the births of four children who came to include Stephen, Joan, Thomas, and Ellen. With faith as their guide, Marilyn and David raised their family in a loving, Christian home to which each of their children came to be very thankful. Always caring, Marilyn was a loving and involved parent who was very family oriented. For a period of time in Marilyn’s life she was a beautician. She finished beauty school in Michigan and then while she lived in Montana and Arizona, she put it into practice. A wonderful homemaker, in her free time Marilyn could always be found sewing and baking. Due to her allergies she had to make her own mix of flour, but she always found a way of making delicious goodies for her family to enjoy. Marilyn did a lot of crafting too, and along with David’s woodworking skills, they participated in many craft shows together. Over the years she sewed many of her children’s clothes including a beautiful prom dress for Ellen, and Joan’s gorgeous wedding gown. In fact, Marilyn passed on her delightful skill of sewing to her daughter, Joan. Crocheting was another talent she shared with others and whenever someone in the family was having a new baby, Marilyn was sure to give them one of these homemade, priceless treasures. Marilyn kept a special place in her heart for children. She loved children dearly and loved working with them, especially during the many vacation bible schools she taught and served through the years. She particularly loved sharing God’s love for them. Faith was the cornerstone of Marilyn’s life. As a longtime member of Prairie Baptist Church, her favorite books of the bible included II Timothy, and her all-time favorite hymn from her earliest years was indeed, The Old Rugged Cross. With a servant’s heart, Marilyn Baird lived a life blessed in the riches of family and faith. With a grace all her own, she taught her children well. Marilyn loved fully and completely in all she said and did. Although she will be dearly missed, gone yet never to be forgotten are the wonderful memories she leaves behind. Marilyn E. Baird, of Fulton passed away on Sunday, October 4, 2020 at the age of 83. Marilyn is survived by her husband of 65 years, David; four children: Stephen (Mary) Baird, of Coopersville; Joan (Bob) Huffman, of NM; Thomas Baird, of FL; Ellen (Mike) Ashbee, of MO; eight grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; two great great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents: Pete and Bernice (Weimer) Holt; three brothers: Ted Holt, Don Holt and Tom Holt; and sister, Elizabeth Ann. The family will greet friends on Thursday, October 8, 2020, 4-7 PM at the McCowen & Secord Funeral Home, 409 South Main Street, Vicksburg, MI 49097. A graveside service will be held on Friday, October 9, 2020, 1:00 PM at the North Fulton Cemetery. While at www.mccowensecord.com please take time to sign Marilyn’s webpage by lighting a candle and/or sharing a memory with the family. Those who wish may make contributions to Rural Bible Missions http://www.rbmministries.org/donations.php or you can mail directly to RBM Ministries c/o Amy & Paul P.O. Box 128 Plainwell, MI 49080. The Baird family is being cared for by the McCowen & Secord Funeral Home, 409 South Main Street, Vicksburg, MI 49097 (269) 649-1697.