James Ray Baldwin

James "Jim" Ray Baldwin, a 1946 model Kansas kid, played sports at Herington High School from which he graduated in 1964. He was quarterback for four years at away games but home games his mother wanted him playing in the band. An adjustment to her game plan was made his sophomore year when he was relieved of his musical career which he didn't care to pursue. Herington High was state champion all four years. Jim excelled on the forensics team -- which carried into his adult life enjoying arguing over politics, projects, or anything he thought would rattle someone's chain. He attended what was then known as Emporia State University before serving for three years, three months, and 28 days in the U. S. Air Force during the Vietnam era. Though stationed in Thailand, he flew to Laos identified as a civilian.

Visiting his younger brother who was living in Paisley during a military leave, prompted Jim to relocate to Paisley where he enjoyed a 30-year career at the Paisley Ranger District working for the U. S. Forest Service. He retired in 1999 as the Fire Management Officer; a position held for many years prior.

Elk hunting with his boys, brother, and friends provided years of memorable stories. He usually had a bird dog, enjoyed hunting chukar, but didn't really want anyone to shoot the quail he loved to watch at the ranch. Jim started a Paisley t-ball team and coached Little League. His arm could be twisted to provide what he called "quilting consulting" – going as far as selecting fabrics in a quilt store and literally getting on the floor closing thousands of pins in quilts.

Jim passed away January 30, 2026, at home. He was predeceased by wife Ariel Brattain Baldwin; parents, Dick and Margaret (Davison) Baldwin; siblings Edward Baldiwn and Cindy Calhoun. Survivors include sons, Jason (Kansas), Jeremy (Paisley), daughter Jama Holchin (Connecticut), wife Brenda Morgan, sister Roberta Stone (Missouri), brother David Baldwin (Glide), numerous nieces, a nephew, and grandchildren.

March 21 at 11 a.m. a Celebration of Life will be held at the Paisley Community Center. Potluck with meat provided will follow service. Contributions can be made to High Desert Rangeland Fire Protection Association, PO Box 34, Summer Lake, OR 97208 or Paisley Disaster Unit, PO Box 208, Paisley, OR 97636.

James Ray Baldwin