Lynda Baird
Lynda Cartwright Baird joined her parents, Henry and Katherine, and brother, James Henry in the kingdom of heaven on January 24th, 2021.
She was a loving wife, mother, sister, aunt, sister-inlaw, daughter-in-law, and friend to many. “I’ll roll with you till the wheels fall off” was her mindset. She instinctively anticipated and met the needs of those around her. When she entered a room, there was no way her energy would go unnoticed. Her Tennessee accent, warm smile and sassy sense of humor made everyone she met feel safe to be themselves too.
Born in Chattanooga, she had an adventurous spirit which was evident at a young age. Her talent for playing the drums set the beat for her life. From hand-feeding a baby elephant in Chang Mai to riding on the back of a bull in Wyoming, she was all in. Sandy beaches replenished her soul, and Florida was her chosen home. She loved sunshine on her face and the freedom of the wind moving through her perfectly coiffed hair; whether on a boat, in her convertible, or on her motorcycle.
She was an Elvis fan and knew his songs like the back of her hand. Animals were important to her and seemed to gravitate to her. A baby deer even followed her home on a neighborhood walk one night. She enjoyed bowling but could be equally happy curled up with a good book.
Her work ethic was a strong one. She rose to the position of National Capital Coordinator for Abbey Residential and was with the company for eighteen years.
She was a force of nature. Obstacles were not daunting to her, but instead were opportunities. A favorite quote was, “if life knocks you down, roll over and look up at the stars”. She knew that life wasn’t easy but believed strongly in a positive outlook. That was part of what was so magnetic about Lynda.
She made the life she wanted and is survived by her husband of twenty one years and “her person”, Tom; her beloved teacup yorkie Tiki; her adoring children, Jody (Kelley) and Clay; her dear sister, Tammy (Tim); many nieces and nephews close to her heart; her beloved grandchildren, Katherine, Lucas and Logan; extended family and countless friends. One last thought to attempt to describe the essence of this beautiful soul might be found in another favorite quote: “When you can’t find the sunshine, be the sunshine.”