Darrell Baird

Darrell Evan Baird, age 69, of Tampa Bay, Florida, passed away on August 11, 2024. A lifelong resident of Columbus, Ohio, Darrell was a devoted and loving father, husband, and dear friend who leaves behind a legacy of integrity, selflessness, and professional excellence.

In addition to his parents, Darrell was preceded in death by his brother Damon. He is survived by his wife Emanuela and her sons, Juri Lale and Angelo Barnett; Angelo’s girlfriend, Michelle Hamre; his children, Ryan, Benjamin, Molly, Emilie, and Eva; his brother, Dennis; and his beloved cat, Stewart.

The son of David and Dorothy, Darell grew up in Columbiana County, leaving Appalachian Ohio to obtain a degree in communications at the Ohio State University, where he was proud member of the Theta Chi fraternity. During his years at Ohio State, Darrell formed strong bonds with a tight-knit group of friends that would last a lifetime. He was a passionate Buckeye, dutifully following his school’s football and basketball games, and a die-hard Cleveland Brown’s fan who never let the team’s successive losing streaks shake his enthusiasm.

Darrell touched the lives of anyone who knew him. He is remembered for his kind soul, and his sense of humor and tendency to share “Dad jokes” were infectious. Darrell found meaning in traveling and exposing himself to new experiences. The way to his heart was a cold beer, warm climate, and the company of good friends.

Darrell and Emanuela shared a deep and unbreakable connection and loved one another dearly. His wife taught him to slow down and enjoy life to the fullest, and they traveled the world together, sharing amazing experiences along the way.

Above all, Darrell was a loving father who sacrificed his own comfort and ambitions for his children, who treasure their memories of him. From Boy Scout trips to ballet recitals, he was active in every part of his children’s lives. He was afflicted with a particular soft spot for his three daughters, for whom he reserved a tenderness and vigilance that only a father can hold for his little girls.

A dedicated professional, Darrell worked in the metal and steel industry throughout his career, bringing success as a project manager to any company that was fortunate to employ him. He was a natural leader who commanded the respect of all of his co-workers. His family is thankful to Shawn Shumake, Darrell’s friend and supervisor at SWS Contracting, whose encouragement and support provided relief to the family during a critical time of need. He truly enjoyed working with Shawn and was grateful for the experience.

A visitation for Darrell will be held Friday, August 23, 2024 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Schoedinger Worthington, 6699 N High Street, Worthington, Ohio 43085, followed by a celebration of life at 5:00 PM. Following this, family and friends are invited to the Varsity Club on Lane Ave. to share stories and condolences.

In lieu of flowers, Darrell’s family requests that memorial tributes are made to the Ohio Wildlife Center at https://ohiowildlifecenter.org/donate/. Throughout his life, Darrell took great joy in feeding the neighborhood raccoons and squirrels, and he would appreciate your contribution.