James Henry Beard, Sr.

Mr. James Henry Beard, Sr, 81, passed away peacefully at the residence of his son and daughter in-law after an extended illness, in Orangeburg, South Carolina, on Monday, January 4, 2021.

James Henry Beard, Sr, was born on September 25, 1939, in the small community of Ehrhardt South Carolina to Lottie Dortch and Henry Beard. His parents instilled in him the values of hard work, respect, compassion for his fellowman and obedience to God.  He dedicated his life to the Lord at an early age at Macedonia Christian Church where his family are long standing members.

Growing up in Ehrhardt, James attended the Ehrhardt public schools with his brothers and sisters. They hunted, fished, and farmed these lands for decades. It was evident from an early age that James had a talent for fixing anything mechanical and a love of music.

James married his sweetheart, Gussie Barbara McMillan, and left South Carolina in the early sixties to find his fortune up north. Over the next fifty years he drove trucks, worked construction, and helped raise his grandchildren. There was no task too small or great for him to undertake for his family. James was never too busy to share a word of wisdom, bring a smile to someone’s face, or to help a family member. One of his greatest joys was cooking for his family and friends from Sunday dinner to Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations every dish he prepared was done with love.

James had a full life and was a blessing to many. He was preceded in death by Ardine Beard Henderson, Thelma Beard Wright, George Beard, Lenell Beard, Emma Beard Kearse, Sherman Beard, and Ronnie Beard.

James leaves to cherish fond memories two loving and devoted children: James (Gwendolyn) Beard of Orangeburg, S.C. and Cheryl (Randy) Benoit of Ringoes, N.J.; five grandchildren: Jasmine Beard, Jamie Beard, James Beard, III, Kelsey Benoit and Francois Benoit; one great-grandson: Landon Charles; four sisters: Ester Edwards of Orangeburg, S.C., Minnie Beard of Brooklyn, N.Y., Betty Beard of Ehrhardt, S.C., and Verba Beard of Bamberg, S.C.; two brothers: Matthew “Mac” Beard of Ehrhardt, S.C. and Louis Beard of Spring, T.X.. A host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends.

The service will proceed as follows:

The viewing will be held on Friday, January 8,2021 at Glover's Funeral Home at 1:00pm unitl 7:00pm. 

The funeral will be held on Saturday, January 9,2021 at Macedonia Christian Church 3638 Macedonia Church Rd Ehrhardt,SC 29081 beginning at 12:00pm. 

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