Joan Marie Beard
Born on August 26, 1941 in Springfield, PennsylvaniaPassed away September 29, 2026 in West Melbourne, Florida
Joan Marie Beard, 85, of Melbourne, Florida, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2026. Joan leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, laughter, kindness, and devotion to those she held dear.
Joan was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Terry Beard, and her dearly loved daughter, Brenda Beard. She is lovingly remembered by her devoted son, Tom Beard, and his wife, Amy; her cherished grandchildren, Austin Beard and his wife, Mackenzie, and Ryan Beard and his special companion, Shannon Campbell; her precious great-grandchildren, Weston and Sadie Beard; as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews who will forever treasure her.
Born on August 26, 1941, in Pennsylvania, Joan moved to Florida as a young teenager and built a life centered on family, faith, and friendship. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend.
Joan loved music deeply and sang in her church choir and First Baptist Church Melbourne. Whenever she heard a song she liked, she could not help but move to the music, often dancing with a smile that made everyone around her smile too.
In 1975, Joan and her husband, Terry, moved to Melbourne from Coral Springs, where they raised their two children, Tom and Brenda. She was active in the school community, served as PTA president, and gave herself wholeheartedly to the demanding but rewarding role of stay-at-home mother. Whether taking her children to sports, school events, or simply being there whenever she was needed,
Joan also had a remarkable creative gift. Her passion for making and painting porcelain brought her great joy and became one of the defining expressions of her life. She spent countless hours pouring molds, firing her creations in her kilns, and carefully hand-painting each piece with patience and artistry. Her beautiful work was admired by many, and some of her pieces were even displayed in the Capitol building in Tallahassee.
Above all else, Joan treasured time with her family. She loved being surrounded by the people she loved most, and she had a special bond with her beloved dog, Coco, who was often affectionately teased as being her favorite child. These little moments of humor and love were part of what made Joan so special. Though our hearts are heavy with the loss of Joan, we are comforted by the many wonderful memories she leaves behind. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by all who had the blessing of knowing her.
A memorial service celebrating Joan’s life will be held on Thursday, October 8, 2026 4 PM at First Baptist church Melbourne at 3301 Dairy road Melbourne, FL 32904. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in her honor to St Judes childrens hospital.
