Dear Stake Members,
It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of President James Baird, due to accidental carbon monoxide poisoning in his home. President Baird was our priesthood leader, friend, and brother. He passed away peacefully this afternoon, surrounded by his family. We are greatly relieved that Sister Baird has now been released from the hospital and has recovered fully.
We express our greatest sympathy and love to Sister Baird and to all the members of the Baird family at this difficult time. President Baird touched our lives in extraordinary ways. He had a seemingly inexhaustible capacity to bless and serve others. We will always remember his powerful testimony of the Savior, his faith-promoting stories, and the energetic expression of his testimony in the way that he actually lived. He has blessed us all in incalculable ways.
The Baird family is deeply grateful for the love that has been expressed to them over the last two days. In addition, they have been touched by the fasting, prayers, and temple attendance on behalf of President Baird. The ultimate outcome was not what any of us desired, but we recognize and humbly accept Heavenly Father's will.
Doctrine & Covenants 42: 45-46 seems to have been written precisely for this moment: "Thou shalt live together in love, insomuch that thou shalt weep for the loss of them that die. . . And it shall come to pass that those that die in me shall not taste of death, for it shall be sweet unto them."
Although we are confident in the reality of the plan of salvation, we will weep for the lost association with him. We will sorely miss his leadership and love.
Finally, details regarding funeral arrangements are yet to be determined. We will let you know once those plans are decided. In the meantime, the Baird family encourages you to share memories, stories, and photos of James at facebook.com/groups/JamesBaird
With deepest love,
President Sheets, President Nelson, John Axley, Earl Griffin, Kent Mikkelsen
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