David Lloyd Baggett died peacefully and surrounded by his family on September 29, 2023, at the age of 81. His journey began on July 15, 1942, in Thomas, Oklahoma. The accidental third child of a Baptist preacher and an adoring mother, he walked a singular path through this life that took him around the globe several times over before landing in the arms of his life partner, Janelle Jean Moore, whom he married on October 23, 1976. He was a fan of the Dallas Cowboys, Corvettes, and Tex-Mex food, but nothing compared to his unwavering love for his wife and family. David was known by many names – Dave, Dad, Uncle David, Paw Paw – and was universally loved for his warmth, tenderness, and authenticity. As he grew older, his rebellious and adventuresome spirit gradually gave way to a fondness for home, stability, and a comfortable couch for watching football and golf. He was a man of many talents – an artist, a self-taught programmer, a salesperson, an account manager – but his greatest talent was his ability to love boundlessly and to make sure those around him felt his love. He could never hear very well, but he was an amazing listener. Before his vision failed in older age, he was a keen observer of people and places. He worked hard and achieved much in this life, but his greatest achievement was being there, time and again, for those he loved – a constant presence for countless practices, games, tournaments, performances, ceremonies, and the everyday stuff of life. He was preceded in death by his father (Cecil), mother (Alma), brother (Dwayne), and sister (Elaine). He is survived by his wife (Janelle), his children (Travis and Britney), their spouses (Meridale and Erik), and his grandkids (Sylvia, Gray, Owen, and Hadley), who lit up his life even as the world around him faded. His family takes solace in knowing that he has passed beyond the pain and confusion that characterized his final years on this earth, to a place where comfort is ever-present, the Cowboys are always on TV, and “a small bowl of chile con queso” is never far away.
Dave was a fine man and glad our paths crossed in this life.
Dear Janelle, Britney, Travis and family,
We were so sorry to learn about Dave’s passing.
We enjoyed lots of Newman Smith Volleyball games together during our kids high school days. We especially enjoyed going out to eat after the games and getting to know your family.
It has been good keeping in touch with what is happening with your family all these years. Miles separate us but you are in my heart and right now it hurts for you.
Love, hugs, and prayers.
Mary and Raymond
Maria and I are sorry to hear of Dave’s passing.
Our condolences to Janelle, Britney, Travis and the rest of your family.
Dave was such a wonderful, kind, caring, compassionate man. I will always remember fondly how wonderful he was with our little munchkins. No child ever knew the meaning of “stranger danger” when they were around him – he was pure magic with kiddos. We miss this great man already ❤️ Love to you all
The Heffners
Hello Baggett Family,
I only knew Dave for a brief time when we worked together at Norlight Telecommunications in their Buffalo Grove IL office at the time in the late 1990s.
I considered Dave not only a friend but a mentor to me.
I recently found a book he gave me 25 years ago, “Don’t Sweat The Small Stuff at Work” by Richard Carlson, and just finished reading it again. It has been very helpful to me, and I searched to find Dave to thank him again.
It was sad to see that he had past a little over a year ago. I wish I had been able to spend more time with him, but I’m very appreciative for the short amount time I did have with him.
I wish you all happiness and blessings, and thanks for that time.
I pray you all have found peace since his passing and wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Joe Tuozzo