Frances Pauline Baird, 73, of Bottineau, North Dakota, passed away peacefully at her home on December 23, 2025.

Frances, lovingly known as Fran or Frannie, was born on September 13, 1952, in Springfield, Massachusetts, to Jenny and Wilfred Viens Sr. She was raised in Hazardville, Connecticut, and graduated from Enfield High School in Enfield, Connecticut, in 1971.

Fran is survived by her son, Robbie (Leisha) Lunnie of Thompson, North Dakota; her grandchildren Nicholas Lunnie of Bowbells, North Dakota, and Rylee, Fynnegan, and Evelynne Lunnie of Thompson, North Dakota. She is also survived by her brothers Arthur (Penny) Viens of Cottonwood, California, and Robert Viens Sr. of Cheney, Washington; her sisters Barbara (Ralph) Ledger of Key West, Florida, and Joan (Russ) Eckert of Feeding Hills, Massachusetts; along with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 26 years, Jimmy Baird; her parents, Wilfred Sr. and Jenny Viens; and her brother, Wilfred "Butchy" Viens Jr.

In 2017 Frances moved from Belchertown, MA, where she had lived with her husband for many years, to Bottineau, ND to be near her son and grandchildren. She quickly made Bottineau her home, was a friend to many in the community and became caregiver to a multitude of outdoor neighborhood cats.

Fran had a deep and lifelong love for animals, especially her dogs, cats, and horses, and found great joy in caring for them. Her friends and family will always remember her compassion, strength, and devotion to her animals. She was loved and will be deeply missed.

Later this summer, a family service will be held in Massachusetts where Fran requested to be laid to rest with her husband and pets.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Fran's honor to Kritter Krazy Rescue, a local pet rescue in Bottineau, North Dakota, which she was involved with.

https://www.kritterkrazyrescue.com/donate