James Elmer Beard

James Elmer Beard, 89, passed away on January 8, 2024 in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on August 21, 1934, to William and Myrtle Beard in Albany, Kentucky.

He lived a life filled with farming, driving tractors, enjoying the outdoors, and restoring old homes. He was known for his intelligence, kindness and cutting humor. Throughout his life, Jim touched the lives of many imparting his wisdom, charm and generosity amongst neighbors, friends, family, and strangers alike.

He was a beloved husband, brother, father, grandfather and will be deeply missed by his wife Eileen Beard. He is survived by his wife Eileen, daughters Deborah (Richard) Stehle and Terri (Bill) Fosnight, and grandchildren Christopher and Nicholas Stehle, Annalise Fosnight, Ciara Stehle, Katrina Stehle and Alexa Stehle.

Jim was passionate about his church and church family. He found joy in sharing meals after church with his family and friends, attending and teaching Sunday school classes, acting as chair on multiple committees and solving a good puzzle in his chair.

Before his 35-year tenure with Nationwide, Jim attended the University of Akron and received a degree in Education. While at Nationwide, he received many accolades for his service and multiple awards for his achievements. His career allowed him to travel with his family to multiple interesting destinations around North America. Jim will be remembered for his attention to detail, his suspenders, and ability to light up a room with his wit and intellect.

A funeral service to honor and celebrate Jim’s life was held at the Fuquay-Varina United Methodist Church on January 20th. In lieu of flowers, the family requests a charitable donation be made in his honor to the Fuquay-Varina United Methodist Church.