The Bio:Kaede is the younger sister of Kikyo; she became the village priestess after her sister's death. She's an elderly woman, but she knows the details of much of the storyline, and is a great deal of help to Inuyasha and Kagome. She also serves as the healing woman/herbalist of the group, as they come to her when someone is injured.
Kagome and Shippou refer to her as 'Kaede-Obaachan' (Grandmother Kaede) while Inuyasha simply calls her 'Baba' (hag). She is a kind old woman, but not at all helpless. She's quite a good shot with the bow and arrow. Of course, she can also be pushy and to the point. After all, it is Kaede who forces Inuyasha and Kagome to team up in the beginning.
My Opinion:With a great deal of responsibility probably placed on her at a very young age, Kaede is influential over the villagers, and acts as a mediator, advisor, and whatever else she's needed as when it comes to Inuyasha and friends. She's strong willed and determined, but she also has a soft, grandmotherly side.