John Brian Baird

John “Brian” Baird, 73, of Coleta, passed away on March 10, 2026, at Rock River Hospice & Home in Sterling, Illinois, surrounded by his family. Born on January 15, 1953, in Olney, Illinois, he was the son of Philip and Freda (Price) Baird.

Brian’s adventurous spirit was shaped early in life. As a Boy Scout with his brothers, he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. When his family moved to Kathmandu, Nepal, during his eighth-grade year, he took on leadership roles in a local Boy Scout troop. He completed his freshman year of high school through correspondence courses and then attended the American International School in New Delhi, India, before graduating from Sterling High School. These formative experiences left a profound impact on him. He went on to study at Sauk Valley Community College and Southern Illinois University, where he became a member of Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity. His professional life included several years with Western Geophysical Co. exploring for oil near Laredo, Texas, followed by a long career at National Manufacturing Co. in Sterling, where he served as Traffic Manager.

Brian held a deep passion for Civil War reenactments, a pursuit he shared with his father, Philip. Together they owned a Civil War cannon and participated in an artillery unit that traveled to major reenactments commemorating the 100th anniversary of Civil War battles. They appeared as extras in the film “North and South.” Brian became a respected expert on Civil War battles and troop movements, amassing an extensive collection of books on the subject. He also participated in World War I and Western reenactments, earning the admiration of his fellow reenactors—his “pards”—for his leadership and knowledge. Drawing on skills learned from his mother, he became proficient at sewing and created and sold Civil War attire, touching the lives of many in the reenacting community. A lifelong Grateful Dead enthusiast, he attended approximately 50 concerts, many with his brother-in-law David Dion, and passed peacefully while listening to their music. He cherished his extensive collection of concert tapes.

Brian is survived by his daughter, Hilary (Joe) Garza; two brothers, Brad (Linda) Baird and Brent (Janica) Baird; one sister, Barbara Baird (David Dion); and three grandchildren, Aaliyah Garza, Antonio Garza, and Jayden Villegas. He was preceded in death by his parents, Philip and Freda Baird; one brother, Bruce Baird; and two sisters-in-law, Betsy Baird and Charlene “Happy” Baird.