Joseph Edgar Baird, Sr.

Joseph Edgar Baird Sr. (J.E.), a long-time resident of Brunswick County, and then Colonial Heights, VA, was born in Gasburg, VA on April 6, 1932. He died March 14, 2023, at the Sitter and Barfoot Veterans’ Care Center in Richmond, VA after a long illness. His parents were the late Hobart M. and Blanche E. Baird. He was predeceased by two of his four siblings, A. Leroy Baird and Marjorie B. King with surviving siblings, Catherine B. Hartley and Mary B. Roberts. He is survived by his devoted wife of forty-five years, Cordie Jones Baird; his sons, Edgar (Kimberly), Charles (Debbie), Kent (Mary Lou), and his daughter, Crystal Mitchell of the home, and Tony Newman of Richmond, VA. JE adored his many grandchildren, and great grandchildren and was often heard telling others about them, always expressing how beautiful and special each was. An outdoorsman at heart, he was known for creating much laughter with hunting and card playing tales, embellishing the details with his hunting brothers, Darrel and Wilbur Spence, his “boys” and his “grand boys.”

In 1952, JE was drafted into the Army and was shipped to Korea immediately after basic training. He served in Korea from 1952-1954, the Army reserves for six years, and cited his military service as one of his proudest career moments, for which he earned a Bronze Star.

After serving, he returned to Brunswick County with his family. JE and his brother, Leroy, operated Baird Pulpwood for years. Using this knowledge of the lumber business, he later retired from Abel Lumber Company. He was eager to help others, loved children, spoke a language all his own, and will be remembered for his many stories, his cap pulled over twinkly blue eyes, and his laughter while teasing, hunting, fishing, and recounting the events of the day.

JE loved Pleasant Hill Christian Church and was so appreciative of Pastor Greg’s many visits during his illness. He also appreciated the in home care provided by his daughter, Crystal, and grandchildren, Hunter, Victoria, and Isaac as well as the excursions that got him away from the house and back to his beloved Brunswick County. He appreciated hunting trips, fishing excursions, and special times with his grands.

The funeral service will be conducted on Sunday, March 19, 2023, at Pleasant Hill Christian Church, Gasburg, VA with Pastor Greg Hand officiating. Visitation will be at 2:00 PM and a celebration of life service will follow at 3:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Pleasant Hill Christian Church, Gasburg, VA or to Disabled American Veterans or Wounded Warriors Project.

Thank you to Fort Lee Honor Guard, Fort Lee, VA, and Master Sgt. Matthew B. Lafoon, USAF, Ret. for military honors.

Arrangements are by Williams Funeral Home & Crematory of Lawrenceville, VA.