Carol Ann Baird

      It is with deep sadness and much love that we announce the peaceful passing of our wonderful mother, partner, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend Carol Ann Baird (nee Carter) of Tillsonburg, Ontario on October 24, 2024 at age 77.  She will be dearly missed and forever cherished by her partner Fraser, children John (Fiona), Jennifer (Steven), Drew (Kim), and Michele (Hub), grandchildren Kaili, Cameron, Audrey, Jake, Mya, and Landon, her siblings Bill (Brenda), Bob (Violet), Rick (Wendy), and Becki, as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.  Carol was preceded in death by her two loving parents Christopher and Vivian, and her brother-in-law Steve.

      Carol was born in her grandparents’ hometown of Calgary, Alberta on December 24, 1946.  Shortly after her birth she returned with her parents to Welland, Ontario, where she grew up spending most of her time with her close family and friends.  She spent many hours practicing to become a beautiful pianist and singer.  After high school, Carol went on to marry Jack, have two children of her own (John and Jennifer), and decided to pursue her career in banking.  Carol dedicated many years of her life to the Bank of Montreal, where she was promoted quickly and excelled as a branch manager in various locations.  She earned various certificates and accolades during her career.  She was lovingly dubbed "the fix it lady" as she could figure out most banking issues that others had missed.  Her leadership and dedication were appreciated by her colleagues and clients alike.  With BMO and her partner Fraser, Carol moved around the Elgin region, eventually settling and retiring in Tillsonburg. 

      Outside of her professional life, Carol was fully devoted to her family.  Her home was always welcoming and she was a fantastic cook.  Those who visited or helped her often received delicious baking as a gift.  Rarely were visitors ever allowed to leave her home without goodies or a thoughtful present - especially her grandchildren.  She also loved shopping, had an amazing green thumb, and enjoyed many of her earlier days at the beach.  Carol was known for her loving and caring nature, always extending a helping hand to those around her and constantly offering unwavering support for her family.  Her strength and courageousness when dealing with her decades-long battle against cancer astounded everyone.

      The family would like to thank the staff at the Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre, Tillsonburg Memorial Hospital, and Sakura House Hospice for their compassionate care during Carol’s illness.  A Celebration of Life for Carol will be held in the near future.  In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Sakura House Hospice and the Canadian Cancer Society in her memory.  Carol's legacy of kindness and resilience will forever be cherished by those who knew her.  She will be deeply missed but forever in our hearts.  Please remember her by "paying it forward".

 Wareing Cremation Services, 225 Norwich Ave., Woodstock has been entrusted with Final Arrangements.  Your messages of remembrance and condolence may be shared here at wareingcremation.ca