Andrea L. Baird, age 77, of Quincy, died on Sunday, June 28, 2026 in her home with her husband and daughters at her side. She was born on August 4, 1948 in Carrollton, IL, the daughter of William and Wanda (Powell) Miner. She married John Baird on April 5, 1986. He survives. Andrea and John are members of the Unitarian Church.

She graduated from Southern Illinois University and began her career as a teacher in Carrollton before joining the Illinois Federation of Teachers in 1984 as a field service representative, first based in Carrollton and later in Quincy. Through her work with the IFT, she mentored countless educators and tirelessly advocated for causes close to her heart, including equal pay for women. Empowering and supporting other women remained a lifelong passion.

After retiring, she continued her commitment to serving others through active involvement in several community organizations. She found joy in tending her flowers, caring for her home, and, above all, caring for her family, including her beloved dog, Sassy.

She cherished traveling the world with the love of her life and with dear friends, creating treasured memories while cultivating an art collection that reflected the places she visited and the experiences she embraced.

Family was always at the center of her life. Nothing brought her greater happiness than making life magical for her grandchildren—whether baking special treats, catching frogs, planning memorable family vacations, or dressing up for Halloween. Her thoughtful touches and cherished traditions made every holiday more meaningful and unforgettable for all who celebrated with her.

She had a remarkable gift for brightening every room she entered, and strangers rarely remained strangers for long. Her warm smile, quick wit, and wonderful sense of humor put everyone at ease and made people feel welcome. She will be remembered most for the deep love she had for her family, the joy she found in bringing people together, and the warmth, laughter, generosity, and unmistakable style that made Andrea—Mom, and Nana—truly one of a kind.

In addition to her husband, Andrea is also survived by:
CHILDREN: Amy Summers Blackhurst (Brett), Beth Baird Buck (Bill) and Amy Baird Summers.
GRANDCHILDREN: Hannah, Hope and Griffin Summers, Tyler Buck (Kelly), Nicole Culley (Ryan), and Colin Nugen (Erica), Emma Arango (Nico) and Dylan Summers.
GREAT-GRANDCHILDREN: Cooper Buck and Carter and Austin Culley.

Numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives also survive.
Andrea was preceded in death by her parents and a brother Steve Miner.

Cremation rites have been accorded. Details will be forthcoming for a celebration of her life that will take place at a later date in July. The Duker & Haugh Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.