He was raised in Ellisville, Mississippi where he attended Jones Jr. College and received a Master’s Degree in Speech Language Pathology from the University of Southern Mississippi. After graduation, he moved to Chattanooga where he met the love of his life on a blind date. Over his career, Michael worked for Hamilton County School Systems, Evergreen Rehabilitation, Siskin, and Life Care Center.
Michael loved everything to do with cooking, Star Wars, movies, karaoke, and his family. He always had a way of bringing humor to every situation. Michael’s biggest accomplishments were his two children and supporting them in everything they did.
He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Preston and Inez Tanner; his brother, Josh Beard; and his father-in-law, Donald Blankenship.
Survivors include his wife of 22 years, Amy Beard; children, Connor Beard and Macy Beard; mother-in-law, Nelda Blankenship; parents, John and Sherry Beard of Laurel, MS; brother, Adam Beard; uncle, Gary (Lorrie) Tanner; and several friends who were like family.
“May the force be with you.”
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the college fund for Connor and Macy, link down below or reach out to the family.
A visitation for Michael will be held Sunday, August 24, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Chattanooga Funeral Home-North Chapel, 5401 Highway 153, P.O. Box 9, Hixson, TN 37343. A graveside service will occur Monday, August 25, 2025, at 9:30 AM at Hamilton Memorial Gardens, 5351 Highway 153, Hixson, TN 37343.
Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist, 5401 Highway 153 Hixson. Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com
