A true steel magnolia, Susan Juanita Johnson Baird was a fierce and loyal warrior wrapped in kindness and compassion. She carried herself with the grace and poise of a southern woman. When it was time to leave this world, she straightened her crown, closed her eyes, and peacefully reached for her Savior.

Susan was born in Oxford, Mississippi, on November 8, 1947, to Marjorie Luna Johnson and Robert Price Johnson. From a young age, she loved Jesus and let Him guide her life. Full of joy and zest, she was a cheerleader at Ripley High School, often sharing stories of traveling to football games— including one favorite tale that ended with a car in a ditch and a stern lecture from her father.

Independent by nature, Susan left Ripley to study Education at Delta State University, earning both bachelor’s and master’s degrees. She enjoyed an active social life until Larry Baird captured her heart—after that, no one else stood a chance.

Susan married the love of her life on December 30, 1969. Together they shared 43 years of adventures, from living in Japan to raising their daughter, MarBeth, and son, Patrick, in Columbus, Mississippi. They taught their children to honor God and served faithfully at First United Methodist Church.

For 30 years, Susan taught elementary students at Heritage Academy, holding high standards and loving her students as her own. Even in retirement, she fondly remembered many by name.

After Larry’s passing in 2013, Susan faced a new chapter with strength and grace. She devoted herself to Loaves and Fishes, led tours at the Stephen D. Lee Home, and delighted in time with her grandchildren.

Rarely did anyone feel unwelcome in Susan’s presence. As her strength faded, she gathered what she had left to say goodbye to those she loved. Like a small stone creating wide ripples, Susan’s joy and love will be felt for generations.

Susan Johnson Baird was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Larry Frazier Baird.

She is survived by her daughter, Marjorie Elizabeth Petty (Kevin); her son, Larry Patrick Baird (Crystal); her brother, Robert Price Johnson Jr. (Connie); and her grandchildren, Courtney Elaine Fernandez, Christopher Price Petty, Nicholas Tyler Petty, Hannah Elizabeth Petty, Sophia Anneliese Petty, Gabrielle Christian Baird, Evan Frazier Baird, Abigail Victoria Baird, and August Benjamin Baird.

A service of remembrance will be held Sunday, January 4, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at First Methodist Church, 602 Main Street, Columbus, Mississippi. Visitation will begin at 2:00 p.m.

Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 32, Columbus, MS 39703.