Richard Wayne Beard Sr.

Richard Wayne Beard was the youngest of 7 children, born to the late Willie and Hillie (née Littrel) Beard in Milltown, Kentucky on October 27, 1946.

Richard enjoyed fishing, golf, watching westerns and shared many stories of his time as one of the original members of the 'Sterlings' band.

He moved to Chicago at seventeen years old, and later married Marsha Eileen Hockings in 1966. They celebrated 56 years of marriage until her passing in 2023. Richard and Marsha were blessed with two sons, Richard Wayne Beard Jr of Fort Wayne, IN (Michelle) and Brett Wayne Beard (Jamie) of Woodridge, Il; two beautiful grandchildren, Bella Beard-Smith (Zack) and Geddy Lee; also surviving is his sister, Peggy Coop of Marion, IN and many nieces and nephews.

Richard was a 38 year Retiree of GM of McCook, Il. He and Marsha retired to Campbellsville, KY in 2004. Richard spent the last few years living with his family in Fort Wayne, where he passed peacefully on April 16th, 2026 at the age of 79.

Richard's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Fond memories may be shared at www.mccombandsons.com for the family.