Obituary of Barbara A. Beard

Mrs. Barbara Ann Beard was born on December 29th, 1947 to Mary Davis and Willie Calhoun. From Helena, Arkansas, Barbara spent her childhood years growing up in St. Louis, Missouri. During that time she received nurturing and love from Elijah and Lillian Richardson. She attended Holy Ghost Catholic Grade School up until the 8 th grade, where she nurtured a giving spirit while expressing concern for those in need. She would carry this spirit throughout her life; often showing the willingness to share with family, friends, and strangers. As a teenager, Barbara enjoyed running track that coincided with participating in the music band while attending Beaumont High School before graduating from Northwest High School in 1966. She was also nominated to participate in the St. Louis Cotillion that recognized local young ladies for their beauty and grace. As a young adult, she attended St. Louis Community College at Forest Park to earn a degree in Business Administration. Later on, she would enter into marriage with Willie Vaughn Beard III. From this union two sons were born (Jermaine Vaughn Beard; Jason Vaughn Beard). She would be a protective and loving parent throughout their upbringing well into adulthood. With Barbara’s background in business, she worked at downtown Mercantile Bank and years later worked at the United States Federal Record Center in St. Louis County. Also, her work career consisted of working many years as a substitute teacher for Saint Louis City public schools with successful tenures at Turner Middle and Sumner High School. After reaching senior hood, Barbara served the community by working as a patient caretaker at Christian Hospital providing comfort for those recovering from health impairments. She would often go above and beyond for those in her care to make them comfortable. She dedicated herself to raised awareness about the homeless, donating goods and clothing to Children’s Public Schools, and that giving spirit lasted always. Barbara is proceeded in death by: Lillian Bibbs (Mother) Josie Burkes (Grandmother); Thomas Chaney Sr.(Brother); Diane Young (Sister); Willie V. Beard III (Husband) and a number of other loved ones and friends. Barbara is survived in death by: Mary Chaney (Mother); Jermaine V. Beard (Son); Jason V. Beard (Son); Julian V. Beard (Grandson); Otto, Peter, Purvell, Dunell, and Tomme Chaney (Brothers); Lillian Robinson and Mattie Pearson (Sisters) and number of other loved ones and friends.