Jason R. Beam

Auburn - Jason Robert Beam, 49, born Sept. 5, 1975, in Taylorville, Illinois, to William R. and Kathryn A. Strode Beam Jr., left this world just as he lived in it - with heart, humor and love overflowing. He passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2025, at Springfield Memorial Hospital in Springfield, Illinois, surrounded by those who adored him, with music playing in the background and a perfectly timed wisecrack on his lips. On Sept. 26, 2008, Jason married the love of his life, Rebecca L. Judge, in Springfield. With that "I do," he didn't just gain a wife - he proudly became a dad to three incredible daughters: Hailey, Katelyn and Abigail. From day one, they were his world. He was a softie through and through, especially when faced with a few well-timed tears and those sweet puppy-dog eyes. Being a dad was the pride of his life, but becoming "Papa" to his grandsons, Levi and Riley, was the cherry on top. He adored them completely, spending countless hours teaching Levi the fine art of mischief (especially if it involved tormenting Mommy and Memaw). Jason grew up in Pawnee, where he assembled a ragtag crew of lifelong friends. Their childhood adventures - many of which likely tested the patience of every adult in town - became legendary. He attended grade school and high school in Pawnee and graduated from Southeast High School in Springfield in 1993. He worked as a paraprofessional at Hope Academy for 10 years, retiring in 2021. He also had worked at the 104 Store in Auburn and Pawnee. Jason had a deep love of music - guitar, gospel, bluegrass, heavy metal and classic rock. He loved sports, rooting for the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears, and enjoyed Big Foot hunting and professional wrestling. Jason had a sense of humor that could make anyone laugh - even if they shouldn't have. He wanted to be remembered the way he lived: "slightly inappropriate and usually laughing." Mission accomplished. Jason is survived by his beloved wife, Becca Beam, of Auburn; three daughters, Hailey L. Judge of Springfield, Katelyn J. Judge of Auburn and Abigail E. Judge of Springfield; and two grandsons, Levi and Riley. He is also survived by his sisters, Trisa Beam of Harvel and Lyndi (Dave) Lowe of Pawnee; nieces and nephews, Madison, Hanna, Ethan, William and Samuel; his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Elizabeth (Paul) Golladay of Springfield and Charles (Leslie) Judge of Decatur; and his devoted in-laws, Robert and Marla Judge, of Illiopolis. Jason's family meant the world to him, and he was deeply proud to be part of such a close-knit, loving crew. He was preceded in death by his parents; his angel babies, Patrick William and Sophie Ann; his nephew, Brady Lowe; and his infant brother, Michael Beam. While our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in knowing he's now cracking jokes with old friends and snuggling his babies in heaven. Jason also had a special place in his heart for his furry companions - his dogs, Suzy and Daisy, and his cats, Catsy Cline and Curtis. Jason never met a stranger, always had time to help someone in need and found joy in the simple things - music, laughter, family and the chaos of grandkids and pets underfoot. His absence leaves a hole that can never be filled, but his love, humor and unforgettable spirit will live on in everyone lucky enough to have known him. He will be deeply missed - but never forgotten. Jason's family will meet friends from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 25, 2025, at Curry Funeral Home in Pawnee. A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025, at the funeral home, with Rev. Melissa Ebken officiating. Burial will follow at Horse Creek Cemetery in Pawnee. Memorials honoring Jason may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Curry Funeral Home in Pawnee is serving the family of Jason Beam. Online condolences may be expressed at www.curryfh.com. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Jason, please visit our Tree Store.