Samera Baird, age 76, a resident of Castle Rock died at her home on July 27th . She is survived by her husband, Bill Baird; two sons Will Baird of Boulder, Colorado, Jonathan Baird of Sedalia, Colorado, and daughters in law Joan Gandy and Julie Caldaro-Baird,. Survivors also include five grandchildren – Cole, Alex and Caden, Susan and William Baird – all who live in Colorado.
Samera was born on September 27, 1947 in Lebanon, Tennessee – the daughter of William A. Major and Ann Major. Her ancestors were farmers in Middle Tennessee. She graduated from Lebanon High School in 1964. Samera earned Bachelors and Masters degrees from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville in special education. She earned the Ph.D. degree from the University of Texas in 1987.
Samera served with her husband Bill as a Peace Corps Volunteer in the Marshall Islands from 1968 – 1970. From 1987 until 2005 she served on the faculty at Auburn University- retiring with the rank of Professor Emeritus. Her graduate students serve around the world and stay in touch.
Samera and Bill traveled extensively after retirement. They enjoyed bicycling, and toured 27 countries with Vermont Bicycle Tours and Road Scholar.
Samera was a regular volunteer at the Help and Hope Center Food Pantry. Her service to the community included membership in the Civitan Club, Caring Circle for her church, and many other ways of helping others.
Samera was always a caregiver. Her credo was “How can I help?” She found many ways to be generous with her time and talents. We can honor her memory by loving each other and finding ways to help those who need us.
A catered celebration of life will be held at Indian Creek Clubhouse on Saturday, September 9th beginning at 2:00 p.m. Mountain Time. Address is 7149 Cherokee Drive, Sedalia, CO 80135. Please wear purple – Samera’s favorite color. There will be tears and laughter, music, food and drink. You are invited to attend and bring your memories of Samera to share.
The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to The Help and Hope Center, https://www.helpandhopecenter.org/donate/.
Samera and I were great high school friends. I played in the band, while she was a majorette. So glad I reconnected with her during Covid!
Helen
Amazing and loving woman. It was truly a gift to have known her and she blessed our family with care, advice and kindness.
I’ll miss you grandma, thank you for being such a kind and generous person. I’m proud to have known you and you’ll always inspire me. I love you