Doug Beard

Funeral Services celebrating his life will be held on Wednesday, December 23, 2020 at 10:00 AM at Pioneer Drive Baptist Church with Senior Pastor Dr. John Whitten officiating. Interment will follow in Elliott-Hamil Garden of Memories under the direction of Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home 5701 Hwy. 277 S. in Abilene. The family invites friends for a visitation on Tuesday evening from 6-8:00 PM at Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home.

Bill Douglas Beard was born on April 7, 1964 in Abilene to the late William A. and Alice J. (Roman) Beard. Doug as he was affectionately known, graduated from Abilene Christian High School in 1982 where he played football. He grew up with his parents attending Grace United Methodist Church. However, in 1985, as a single he visited Pioneer Drive Baptist Church’s Singles Group, where he met Joyce Ann Behring. The two married on October 4, 1986 at Pioneer Drive, where they became active members and raised their family. Being an only child, he always wanted a large family and within the first 5 years of marriage he and Joyce had welcomed 4 children, with their last child to follow in 1999. With Joyce’s busy nursing career and providing for 5 children Doug took on the role of Mr. Mom before it was socially accepted. He fulfilled the role with pride and love. His greatest fulfilment in life came from his wife, children, and his grandchildren. He always communicated his love, and appreciation for them through words, acts, or special t-shirts. He attended Texas State Technical College in Sweetwater where he graduated with his associates. He went on to work for several companies, WolfePak Software, Taylor County as a correctional officer and lastly at Abilene State Supported Living Center to name a few. His final role at Abilene State Supported Living Center brought much fulfillment and joy to his life. He will be remembered as a simple Christian man, a wise counselor, and loyal friend. He loved creating fun and unique memories with his family. Last but not least he was a lifelong Dallas Cowboys Fan.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, William and Alice Beard; and his father-in-law, Arthur Behring, unfortunately all of Cancer.

He is survived by his, wife, Joyce Ann Beard; children, Brittany Helmick (Dakota), Brandon Beard, Bethany Manry (Jacob), Brianna McCarson (Dalton), and Nathan Beard; cherished grandchildren, John Wayne and Kylie Faith Helmick; mother-in-law, Harriet Behring; aunt, Frances Beard; uncle, Bobby Beard (Diane); his sister-in-laws, Julie Wilson, a double cancer survivor, and Deb Reese; brother-in-law, Fritz Behring; 2 nieces, Chantelle Broome and Nicole Chavez; numerous cousins, other relatives and special friends.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/doug-beard?utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=customer&utm_campaign=p_na+share-sheet&rcid=3fb221c0a0b3430286ffcef891887bf2