James L. Baird, 66, entered into eternal rest on Friday, January 16, 2015 in Baystate Medical Center. Born in Springfield, son of the late Robert and Blanche (Hill) Baird, he lived in Palmer before moving to Belchertown seventeen years ago. James worked for over twenty years for the Massachusetts Department of Mental Retardation and worked at the Belchertown State School until its closing in 1992. He also had a degree in physical therapy. He leaves his wife, Frances P. (Viens) Baird, a son, Robert P. Lunnie of Great Falls, MT, a brother, William Baird of West Springfield, a sister, Blanche Colby of East Longmeadow, and four grandchildren, Nicholas, Rylee, Fynnegan, and Evelynne. He was predeceased by a brother, Robert Baird. The funeral will be Thursday at 7pm at the West Springfield Curran Jones Funeral Home, 109 Main Street. The burial will be private. Calling hours will precede the service on Thursday from 5-7pm. Donations may be made to the American Lung Association, 393 Maple Street, Springfield, MA 01105.