Andrea L. Baird
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. Funeral service will be held on Friday, July 17, 2026 at 2:30 PM at the Duker and Haugh Funeral Home. Visitation will be held on Friday, July 17, 2026 from 1:00 PM until the time of services at the Duker and Haugh Funeral Home. Memorials are suggested to the Unitarian Church. The Duker & Haugh Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
Andrea was a beautiful woman, inside and out! It was a blessing to know her! May she rest in peace knowing that she gave much to many and will be dearly missed!
Andrea was genuinely interested in every person she met. She sparkled with her love of life and family and always displayed kindness and appreciation. We send love and prayers to the Baird family. May the Lord Bless and Keep Andrea always.
John, I am so very sorry for your huge loss. Andrea was one of the sweetest people and although I didn’t know her long and truly enjoyed her. You were a very sweet couple and my heart aches for you and the girls.
Andrea was a colleague of mine in Ift. She brought so much intensity determination to the progressive labor movement. She was one of those lights that will shine for many years in the future. A true sister in the movement.
I send my love for John and her and his children
Amy, so sorry for your loss, thoughts and prayers for you and your family.
So sorry for your loss. Andrea was a beautiful lady inside and out.! may God give you comfort and strength during this difficult time and may he welcome Andrea to the home he has made for us where we will hopefully someday meet again! Blessings to be with you!
Andrea was such a bright light in this world. Everyone who knew her was lucky. We will miss her so much. John, our hearts are with you at this difficult time.
With love,
Chaunie and Logan
John, I was saddened to hear of Andrea’s passing. I am very sorry for your loss. Please accept my sympathy.
So sorry to hear of Andrea’s passing. She and I were 1966 graduates of Carrollton Illinois High School, childhood neighbors and good Friends.
Condolences to the Family; she was a good person.
Mel (and Patsi) Diehl – Cherry Hill, NJ
We wish to express our condolences to John and his daughters for the loss of his wife and their Mother. May happy memories comfort you
today and always. Prayers be with you all
Dear John
I was saddened to hear that Andrea had passed away.
She was so supportive of Socrates Cafe and always encouraged me to find different topics and different speakers.
I will miss her lively presence and comments at SC meetings.
Please accept my sympathy for your loss.
Meenal
John, May you rest in God’s wonderful arms and receive peace and comfort. Andrea was a great lady to know!
John,
I am so sorry to hear this news. Andrea was a special person. I know she was SO helpful and encouraging for 1000’s of teachers for many years. I will pray that God gives you the strength you need in the days ahead, and that HE will fill your family’s hearts with the many great memories that you created, and shared, together. God Bless.