William Joseph Beard

William lived a life defined by hard work, loyalty, adventure, and an unwavering love for his family and friends.

A 1983 graduate of Washington Catholic High School, William went on to earn his degree in Avionics Maintenance Technology/Technician from Vincennes University in 1985. He dedicated more than 30 years to the avionics industry, where his expertise and knowledge earned the respect of coworkers and colleagues alike. Throughout his career, he worked on numerous aircraft platforms, including but not limited to the Learjet, CRJ200, MU-2, and BD-710, becoming known for his exceptional mechanical ability and attention to detail.

After college, William made his home in Ocean View, Norfolk, Virginia, where he built a life centered on his passions and the people he loved. William had a lifelong love of automobiles, especially his prized 1966 Dodge Dart—the very first car he ever purchased. He spent decades restoring and perfecting it, earning multiple awards for his craftsmanship. A gifted mechanic, he took great pride in his work and was always willing to lend his knowledge to others. He was a devoted fan of heavy metal music and traveled to countless concerts throughout his life, including the unforgettable experience of seeing AC/DC perform in Sydney, Australia. He also had a deep passion for motorsports and enjoyed attending races of every kind.

William was a God-fearing man, a proud Republican, and a dedicated supporter of President Donald Trump. He stood firmly by his beliefs while treating those around him with kindness, respect, and generosity. Above all else, William cherished his family and the lifelong friends such as Danny, Reed, and many others who became family. His love, loyalty, and sense of humor left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

William is survived by his sisters, Leslie Kennedy and Rhonda Hunt (Delbert Hunt); his only niece, Leslie Meadows (Nathan); his great-nieces and nephew, Alexis Hunt, Madison Fleisher (Zachary), Isabella Meadows (Riley Boggs), and Tyler Meadows (Allison); his great-great-nieces and nephew, Georgia, Waylon, Hazel, Elsiemae, Ivy, and Magnolia; as well as many beloved aunts (Sherry, Mary Ellen, and Carolyn just to name a few, uncles Steve Waltz, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his mother, Georgia Foster, and his father, August "Larry" Beard and Grandparents William Beard (Colleen) and Joseph Waltz (Catherine) .

William's legacy of hard work, dedication, friendship, and love will continue to live on through those who knew him. He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and never forgotten.