Kristen Beard DeLaney tragically passed away on Saturday, July 18, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and generosity that will forever be felt throughout Mobile and beyond. Kristen is survived by her loving husband, Drew DeLaney, her two beautiful daughters, Helen and Rosemary DeLaney, her parents, Brad and Melissa Beard, her sister, Brooke Dodson (John), mother-in-law, Elaine DeLaney (the late David DeLaney), brothers-in-law, Brooks DeLaney (Leigh Ann), Mark DeLaney (Berkley), and nieces and nephews, William and Jack Dodson and Jackson, Mack and Lily DeLaney.
A graduate of UMS-Wright Preparatory School, Kristen continued her education at Hollins University. She then went on to be an integral part of her family business, Beard Equipment Company, which she was deeply proud to be a part of.
Kristen was a devoted civic leader whose dedication to the Mobile community was evident through her service on numerous boards and organizations, including the United Way of Southwest Alabama, the UMS-Wright Board of Trustees, Children's & Women's Hospital- Local Goodness, and the Child Advocacy Center of Mobile. She generously gave her time, talents, and resources to causes close to her heart. Her mission was always seeking ways to uplift those around her and enhance the lives of people in need.
To know Kristen was to experience kindness in its purest form. She possessed a rare gift for making people feel loved, valued, and important. Whether through a heartfelt conversation, a thoughtful gesture, or simply her warm smile, she had a way of bringing comfort, joy, and laughter to everyone she encountered. Her infectious spirit and laugh could brighten the darkest room. She never sought recognition for her generosity; she simply believed in caring for people and giving back to others.
Above all else, Kristen was a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished daughter, loyal sister, and steadfast friend. Her greatest pride and joy were her two beautiful daughters, whom she loved beyond measure and treasured every day. She loved to travel and share those special moments with her family and friends. She shared a deep and loving partnership with her devoted husband, the true love of her life. Together they built a family grounded in love, faith, and unwavering support for each other. Her family was the center of her world, and the depth of her love for them was evident in everything she did every day.
Kristen will be remembered not only for her accomplishments and leadership but for the extraordinary way she made people feel. She was a loyal friend, a trusted mentor, an incredible role model, and a source of strength and inspiration to so many. Kristen's life was beautifully lived and full of joy. She will be missed beyond words, but remembered forever in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known her.
Funeral services will be held from Dauphin Way United Methodist Church on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at 12 p.m.
In lieu of flowers please donate to South Alabama Children’s and Women’s Hospital, Child Advocacy Center of Mobile, and UMS-Wright Preparatory School. Condolences may be offered at www.pinecrestfuneralhome.com
