James Donovan Beard died January 2, 2023. He was 92 1/2 years old. James (Don), was born in July of 1930, in St Louis, MO. He was adopted by his parents James and Edith Montgomery Beard when he was 10 years old. He spent his early years in Missouri in, O'Fallon, Villa Ridge, and St Louis. After graduation from high school he went on to join the Navy, traveling the world on the USS Corregidor CVE 58…he had the time of his life, sailed through the Panama Canal, crossed the international date line, and was in port in many countries around the world.
He met the love of his life Joan Higgins while on leave. They married in May of 1953, and raised their family in New Jersey. They were looking forward to celebrating their 70th wedding anniversary this coming May.
James Is survived by his wife Joan, daughter Darlene Forsythe, sons Keith and Kevin (Phyllis). Grandson Christopher Forsythe (Jennifer), and great granddaughter Emma Forsythe. He was pre-deceased by his son-in-law Michael Forsythe.
James, known as Don or Uncle Don to family, spent his career selling life insurance, working his way up to company auditor. He made the most of his vacation time taking the family on road trips tent camping and later motor homing through out most of the eastern states from Maine to Florida.
James was the best husband, dad, and all around person. He was always doing for others, there for anyone that needed help. He took pride in maintaining his home and taught all three children important life skills.
He loved Joan with all his heart and each of his children. No one has ever said an unkind word about him. He was loved by all that knew him and will be missed by each and everyone of them.
James had a long full life, now it is time for him to rest easy…until we see him again.

Friends and family may gather at Boynton Memorial Chapel on January 18, 2023 at 11:15am to say your final goodbyes to James before he is laid to rest at the South Florida National Cemetery.