Ruth Carol Beard

Ruth Beard, age 77, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 3, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Ruth was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend whose gentle spirit and steadfast faith touched all who knew her.

Ruth was born on September 3, 1948, to Charles and Lila Hirst, in San Jose, California. During her childhood, her family moved frequently, helping shape the resilience, adaptability, and quiet strength that would characterize her throughout her life. She graduated from Inglewood High School in 1965, graduating eighth in a class of over 500 students. Her academic excellence earned her scholarships that helped her continue her education at Brigham Young University, where she began her freshman year at just 17 years old.

On May 28, 1970, Ruth married the love of her life, Donald Beard, in the Salt Lake Temple. Together they built a beautiful life centered on faith, devotion, and family. Their marriage of nearly 56 years was filled with love, laughter, service, and enduring companionship. In 2020, they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary surrounded by their children, including family members who traveled from afar to surprise them for the occasion.

Her greatest joy was her family. She adored her six children and treasured every moment spent with her growing posterity. Family traditions were especially dear to her, including cherished Christmas Eve dinners and beloved summer trips to Cannon Beach. Ruth created a home filled with warmth, creativity, and love.

She was a gifted artist and found joy in creating beautiful things with her hands. Ruth loved painting in oils and watercolors, quilting, calligraphy, scrapbooking, and crafting handmade birthday and Christmas cards for those she loved. She lovingly hand-pieced and quilted wedding blankets for each of her children and special quilts for each granddaughter, treasured gifts that will remain lasting reminders of her love and devotion.

A faithful disciple of Jesus Christ, Ruth served devotedly in many callings in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including Relief Society President, Laurel advisor, Gospel Doctrine teacher, and Cub Scout den leader. She also participated in pioneer treks and quietly ministered to countless individuals throughout her life through acts of compassion and service.

Ruth will be remembered for her generosity, patience, resilience, and Christlike example. She was slow to anger, never spoke ill of others, and consistently placed the needs of those around her above her own. Despite many health challenges throughout her life, she endured with grace, faith, and remarkable strength, never seeking sympathy or complaint.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Lila Hirst; her brothers David Hirst, Jerry Hirst, and Michael Hirst; and her sisters Janis Barnett and Elizabeth Eddington.

Ruth is survived by her devoted husband, Donald Beard; her children Joshua (Nicole), Rachel (Nicole), Miriam (Dan Dyer), Caleb (Carolina), Samuel (Christine), and Joel (Leigh Ann); 16 beloved grandchildren; and one precious great-grandchild.

A visitation for Ruth will be held Tuesday, May 12, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Brookside Funeral Home - Champions.

Ruth will be laid to rest the same day at 1:00 p.m. at Forest Park Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers are Joshua Beard, Caleb Beard, Samuel Beard, Joel Beard, Dan Dyer, and Jackson Beard.

A memorial service celebrating Ruth’s life will also be held on June 6, 2026, with the location and time to be determined.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to the many friends, neighbors, church members, caregivers, and loved ones who offered kindness, prayers, and support during Ruth’s life and in recent days. Her legacy of faith, love, creativity, and selfless service will continue to bless generations to come.