Charles Luther Baird, 90, Maryville, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 28, 2012 at Golden Living Center, Maryville.

Charlie was born on June 8, 1921, in Lemar, Missouri, to Clyde and Maude Baird. He graduated from Leavenworth (Kansas) High School and entered the Army Air Corps after high school, serving in Europe in World War II. Charlie moved to Maryville in 1945 where he and his father were owner-operators of Baird Milling Company. Charlie also served in the Air Force during the Korean War.

Charlie married Betty Jeanne Tilson on September 6, 1947 in Maryville. He continued to operate Baird Milling Company until 1971, when he became an integral force in the establishment and construction of the Maryville Housing Authority, serving as its first Executive Director until his retirement.

Following retirement, he and Betty moved to Rock Port, Missouri. Always active in the community, Charlie served on the Maryville City Council, and following his retirement served on boards in both Rock Port, and in Savannah, where he later resided. Charlie was an avid reader, enjoyed visiting with people, hunting and fishing, photography and raising registered beagles.

In 2008, Charlie returned to Maryville, where he resided until his passing. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife. Betty, and his great-grandchild, Nevaeh Auxahanna Miller Moore. Charlie was a member of the American Legion, VFW, Elks Club and First Christian Church.

Survivors include David Baird and wife, Carol, Maryville; Jim Baird, Kansas City; Mary Jane Miller, Graham; and Betsy A. Baird, Kansas City North, as well as six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Mr. Baird has been cremated. Memorial service and inurnment will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, May 4, at Nodaway Memorial Gardens, Maryville. Memorials are suggested to the Maryville Public Library, 5th and Main, Maryville, Missouri 64468.

Arrangements: Price Funeral Home (www.pricefuneralhomemaryville.com)