William “Barry” Beard passed away at home surrounded by his family on February 13, 2023, at the age of 73. He was the son of the late James and Mavine Beard. He attended school in Belzoni, MS, where he was an avid football player. He served in the U.S. Army in Vietnam. He was retired from the U.S. Army Vicksburg District from the Soil Conservation laboratory. He was an active member of Trinity Baptist Church.
He is survived by his wife, Patti S. Beard, his daughters, Kellie (Robby) Fortenberry and Ashley (Michael) Hemphill, his son, Brad Beard, his grandchildren, Brayden Ray, Dakota Beard, Kayleigh Beard, Karlie Grace Ray, Blake Beard, Emma Hemphill, Lynlee Hemphill, his brother Eric (Judy) Beard, his sister-in-law Carole (Timmy) Stephenson, numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, James Beard and sister, Cynthia Beard.
The services will be Friday, February 17, 2023, at Trinity Baptist Church, 3365 Porters Chapel Road in Vicksburg, officiated by Brother Ron Burch and Brother Bill Wright. Pallbearers are Mitch Martin, William Cook, Scott McClellan, John Arnold, Steve Cooper, and Pat Daughtry. Visitation will be at the church from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Greenlawn Gardens Cemetery under the direction of Fisher-Riles Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the Trinity Baptist Church Playground Fund.
Special thanks to Keith and Nancy Renfroe, William and Pam Cook, Mitch Martin, Miss Willy Young, Scott McClellan, and Dr. Lee Giffin.