Howard "Wayne" Baird

Howard "Wayne" Baird, 87, of Wilson, Oklahoma, passed away on November 3, 2025. He was born on November 16, 1937, in Ardmore, Oklahoma, to the late Howard Miller Baird and Lela Juanita (Gunter) Theaux.

Wayne was a graduate of Ardmore High School, class of 1955. In October of that year, he married Geneva (Stiewig) Skala, and together they welcomed a daughter, Debra, and an infant son, Howard Wayne, Jr., who preceded him in death. He spent two years on active duty in the United States Army and was stationed in Italy in a missile unit serving honorably. Wayne enjoyed a dedicated career with OG&E for 32 years.

An outdoor enthusiast, Wayne cherished activities such as trail rides, shopping trips to Old Mexico, and rodeo events where he showcased his skills in roping and bareback riding. He was known for his generosity, often lending a hand to others with their cattle while never asking for assistance in return.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, his infant son, and his children's mother, Geneva, who passed away on May 8, 2025.

He is survived by his daughter, Debra Baird; three granddaughters, Christy Shuman and her husband Jimmy, Jennifer Pester and her husband Jaisen, and Amber Bain and her husband Chris; ten great-grandchildren; his sister, Danna (Theaux) Murray, and her husband Allen; as well as several nieces, nephews, and a host of family and friends, including Joann Waterson and her family.

Funeral services will be held at Alexander Gray Funeral Home Chapel on Friday, November 7, 2025, at 2:00 P.M., with Rev. Mike Johnston officiating. Interment will follow at Rosehill Cemetery. Visitation is scheduled for Thursday evening from 5 to 7 P.M. at the funeral home.

Pallbearers will include Steven Murray, Danny Murray, Bryce Murray, Buster Murray, Blane Murray, and Danny Archer. Honorary bearers are Jerry Roskam and Tom Howell.

Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.alexandergrayfh.com.