James Edward Beard

July 3, 1946-January 18, 2025

Jim is survived by his wife of 55 years Rita, daughters Aimee Hawkins (Brett), Erin Flannery (Kyle), beloved grandson Oliver Flannery, and sister Alice Kay Giles.  He was preceded in death by his parents Irene and Gilbert Beard, brothers Charles and William Beard, and sister Nancy Bailey.

Jim was born in Gallipolis, Ohio on July 3, 1946 and graduated from Ohio University.  He moved to St. Petersburg, Florida in 1976.  He was an outstanding golfer throughout his life, playing at the St. Petersburg Country Club and in the Veterans Affairs golf league.  Very physically active, Jim also enjoyed playing tennis and jogging.  He was a big sports fan (college football in particular) and his favorite team was Ohio State University.  He had a great sense of humor and always liked to joke around.

Jim retired as a rating specialist with the Department of Veterans Affairs in 2004.  An Army veteran himself (1966-1969), he often spoke fondly of his overseas tour in Bremerhaven, Germany, where he met his wife Rita.  Jim loved Europe and after retirement, he and Rita enjoyed several European river cruises.

Jim was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather (“B-pa”) and will be greatly missed.