Ronald Thomas Baird

Ronald Thomas Baird, Ron or Ronnie to all who knew him, died unexpectedly Friday, July 11, 2025, while at the movie theater and with golfing plans in place for the next day. Ron was a native of Johnson City, and lived most of his life in Washington County, most recently at the Crumley House Brain Injury and Rehabilitation Center, Limestone. He was the son of Thomas Bedent Baird, Johnson City, and the late Carolyn Carter Baird. Ronnie was a 1975 graduate of Bearden High School, Knoxville, then attended The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, for two years. He worked as a Machinist at his family's business, Baird Machine, Johnson City, before his retirement. Ron was a member of Munsey Memorial United Methodist Church. He was a traumatic brain injury survivor who had a witty sense of humor and guarded his friendships like gold. He developed several meaningful friendships at Crumley House with staff and residents, and continued his lifelong friendship with Phil, who paid his tribute to Ronnie, saying that "We were brothers" and "Ronnie was the best friend I ever had". The family would like to give a special thank you to the Crumley House, who ensured that Ronnie was not only taken care of, but led a full life. We encourage each of you to learn about and participate in helping every resident of Crumley House to also lead full and enriched lives. In addition to his mother, Ronnie was preceded in death by a daughter, Clarissa Nicole Baird. In addition to his father, he is survived by daughter, Myra Idella Baird, Knoxville; sister, Candace Baird Bishop and husband, Blane, Holly Springs, NC; three nephews, Trevor Bishop, Kingsport, Jarod Bishop and wife, Heather, Johnson City, Seth Bishop and fiancé Chelsea Lefemine, Johnson City. The funeral service will be conducted Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 2:00 P.M., from the East Chapel of Appalachian Funeral Home, with Reverend Michael Lester, officiating. Graveside committal service will follow in Fairview Cemetery, Jonesborough. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers. Family will receive friends prior to the service from 1:00-2:00 P.M. in the East Parlor of the funeral home. In-lieu-of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Crumley House, 300 Urbana Rd., Limestone, TN 37681.