AUGUST 8, 1939 - DECEMBER 16, 2025 Mary Jane (Traughber) Baird passed peacefully at home with family on the afternoon of December 16, 2025. Jane, as she was known as, is the daughter of Elmo and Mildred (DeSart)Traughber, the wife of Walter (Bill) and the mother of Bonnie, Jeff, Jim and Janis.

Jane was born in Taylorville, where she lived for most of her life. On October 23,1957 she and her sweetheart eloped to Gainesville, TX . Bill was on his way to San Antonio to attend boot camp for the Air Force, where he served proudly for 9 years. In a moment that became a cherished family story, the judge called a recess in the middle of a murder trial to wed the young couple. While in the military the young couple spent time abroad in Morocco and Madrid and closer to home in Missouri. They came back to the Taylorville area, where they raised their four children.

Jane and Bill had a lifelong partnership filled with love, laughter and enduring commitment. They shared 70 years together, being married for almost 68 years, a testament to their enduring love and commitment.

For many years Jane worked at Frank's IGA and County Market. She joined her husband Bill at Shelter Insurance where they worked side-by-side for 26 years, building lasting relationships with the community and clients. Jane was deeply involved in the Women of the Moose Chapter 1263, where she held many titles over the years. Among her honors were the Green Cap, Star Recorder, and the highest distinction College of Regents, Red Stole. Her leadership and service within the Moose Lodge reflected her lifelong dedication to fellowship, tradition and helping others.

Jane is survived by her children Bonnie (Dave) of Avon, Indiana; Jeff (Susan) of Langleyville; Janis of Taylorville; Daughter-In-Law Kayla of Morrisonville and Sister-In-Law Margaret Schmidbauer of Mt. Home, Arkansas. She leaves behind a cherished legacy through her children, 10 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, several cousins and nephews.

Jane was preceded in death by her parents, devoted husband Bill (October 4,2025) and son James (September 15,2023) She will be remembered for her warmth, humor, love of Willie Nelson and dedication to those she loved.

There is a Celebration of Jane's life to take place on January 24, 2026 at 1pm at the Taylorville Moose Lodge 702 McAdam Drive. Please come out and celebrate with us! You need not be a member to attend. Donations in Jane's memory can be made to the Women of the Moose 1263 or Taylorville Library.