Robert Leroy Beard

Robert Leroy Beard passed away at the age of 87 on September 28, 2026. For the past three years, he was a resident of Anthem Lakes Assisted Living Facility in Atlantic Beach, Florida. Robert was born in Covington, Kentucky, on March 20, 1939, to Edward Leroy Beard and Wanda Lee Beard (nee Spillman).

Growing up in Norwood, Ohio, Robert showed an interest in Ham Radio from an early age, Passing the test for his license in 1952 at age 13, he mastered Morse code within a year and upgraded his license to W8PLL.

In 1957 he was off to college studying electronic engineering. After college he worked in electronics, but had a growing interest in aviation. He earned his commercial pilots license with instrument and multi-engine ratings. He began flight instruction to build time in his log.

By the early 1970’s, he had returned to electronics and flying had become a hobby until health issues forced him to stop.

In the mid 1970’s he moved from San Diego to the Silicon Valley where he worked for various firms, most notably Ampex. His work took him around the world, supporting video equipment at sporting events from WWF to the Olympics.

After retirement, he and his cat left “the land of the fruits and nuts” and moved to Florida to be close to family. In Middleburg he built his dream Ham station and talked to friends around the world.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Linda Lee Young (John); and his niece, Sharon Gail Young. He is survived by his niece, Catherine Johnson (James), and his great-niece and great-nephew, Emily and Samuel Johnson. Robert affectionately referred to himself as ‘Adequate’ Uncle Rob rather than Great Uncle Rob.

He is also survived by his cat, Aria, who has been rehomed with family.