Willie Josephine "Billie" Beard

Willie Josephine "Billie" Beard, 89, passed away on Saturday, January 31, 2015 in Ocean Springs, Ms. Billie was born on August 10, 1925 in Lexington, Ms to the late Wallace and Mabel Williams. She made the Gulf Coast her residence after the family moved here in 1940. She was a member of Belle Fountain Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Robert "Bob" Beard, sisters, Alice Gum and Louise Lee, brother, Willard Williams and nephew, Gordon Lightsey. Billie is survived by her niece, Ann (Charles) Schuck, who was like a daughter to her since at age 21 she chose to be guardian of 4 1/2 year old Ann when her mother and maternal grandmother were both killed in an automobile accident. She is also survived by nephews, Billy Ray Lee and Donald Lee, extended friends loved as family. The family wishes to express appreciation to former caregivers Betty Matney, Bobbie Ferguson and Gloria Humble for providing care and attention along with inspirations of love and joy. In addition thoughts of gratitude go to the staff at The Ocean Springs Healthcare Center for the compassion, professional service and support shown to their Aunt and the family during her brief but last days. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 3, from 12 Noon until 2 pm, with a 2 pm chapel service, all at Bradford O'Keefe Funeral Home, 911 Porter St., Ocean Springs, Ms. Burial will follow at Crestlawn Memorial Cemetery in Ocean Springs.