CPO William Raymond Beard, USN (Ret.), 81 of Summerville, South Carolina, husband of the late Patricia Ann Beard entered into eternal rest Sunday, July 26, 2026. His Funeral Service will be held Thursday, July 30, 2026 at the J. Henry Stuhr Inc., Northwoods Chapel, 2180 Greenridge Road at 11:00 am. Interment will follow at Dorchester Memory Gardens 11000 Dorchester Rd, Summerville. The family will receive friends Wednesday, July 29, 2026 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm in J. Henry Stuhr Inc., Northwoods Chapel.

CPO William was born May 25, 1945 in Hampton, Iowa, son of the late Willie Beard and the late June M. Eakins Beard. William devoted 25 years to the United States Navy, achieving the rank of Chief Petty Officer before his retirement. Throughout his military career, he embodied the values of honor, courage, and commitment, earning the respect and admiration of those who served alongside him. His years in the Navy were a testament to his sense of duty and his unwavering patriotism. Beyond his military service, William was an active member of the Yeamans Park Presbyterian Church, where he furthered his lifelong journey of faith. He served as an elder within the church community, a role in which he provided guidance, support, and comfort to fellow congregants. William’s dedication to his church was emblematic of the compassion and kindness that defined his character. Out of all William's many accomplishments, however, the one he would tell you he was most proud of was his family. Nobody ever spoke to William without hearing about his children, his grandchildren, and his many memories with all of them.

He is survived by son, Michael Beard of Gulfport, MS; daughters: Michelle Webb of Summerville, SC, Felicia Dawnn Bertaut (John) of Slidell, LA, and Rickie Seal (Rick) of Picaynne, MS; grand-daughter, Catelin Webster (Corey) of Summerville, SC; brothers: Donnie Beard (Kathy) and Bobby Beard (Jenny), 12 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Ronnie and Gene Beard; and sister, Lucille Cook.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to Wounded Warrior Project P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516.