Louise C. Baird

Martha Louise Cagle Baird age 96 passed peacefully from this world on October 1, 2015 surrounded by her family. Formerly of Madisonville, TN she was born August 21, 1919 to the late Josie White Cagle and Raymond Cagle. Louise was a member of many civic groups and the First Baptist Church. She worked beside her husband, former Tennessee Senator Ray R. Baird Sr. for 38 years at The Rockwood Times as editor, publisher and accomplished columnist. She was also known as an outstanding host to many Tennessee dignitaries while her husband served for 24 years in the State Senate.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ray R. Baird Sr.; brother, J.R. Cagle; sister, Marie Cagle Wilson; sister in law June Niles Cagle and a daughter in law, Martha Baird. Louise is survived by her son, Ray R. Baird Jr.; daughter, Nancy B. Steele and husband Ralph; two brothers, Jim Cagle and wife Ann of Athens, Tn., William (Billy) R. Cagle of Tellico plains, Tn.; sister in law, Sue Cagle; a granddaughter, Alice Barnett (Ted) of Parsons, Tn.; grandson, James Gibson of Highland, Ill.; five great grandchildren, Jake Myracle, Leah, Tommy, Matthew Barnett and Andrew Gibson. One great- great granddaughter, Miss Eloise Barnickel who brought her renewed joy in her final days.

A memorial service will be held for Louise at her daughter’s home in Jacksonville on Sunday, October 4 from 2pm-6pm. In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to Community Hospice of Jacksonville. Interment will be at Indian Rocks, FL where she will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband of 56 years.

Arrangements are under the direction of HARDAGE-GIDDENS FUNERAL HOME, 1701 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach.