Clara Annette Beard

Mrs. Clara Annette Beard (Ann) was born on November 4, 1956, in Gainesville, Florida, to the late Willie and Clara Williams. From an early age, it was clear that she was a woman of deep faith, boundless love, and unwavering strength. Her heart overflowed with love for her family, friends, and community, and she touched countless lives through her kindness and generosity.
She accepted Christ at an early age and remained a devoted Christian throughout her life. She was a faithful and dedicated member of Miracle Deliverance Center, where her spiritual impact was felt by everyone she encountered. Clara's presence extended beyond her home church; as a beloved and faithful visitor at Immerse Church, she was always ready to offer encouraging words and share laughter wherever she went.
Mrs. Clara received her education through the Alachua County Public School System, where she developed a strong foundation built on faith, integrity, and compassion. On July 27, 1986, she married Jackie Beard Sr., and together they raised four children, building a home rooted in love, faith, and unity. She was also the proud owner and operator of Beard Home Daycare for many years, where she poured love, patience, and strong values into every child in her care. She fulfilled many roles throughout her life: mother, grandmother, aunt, friend, and mentor, each one carried out with her kind, bold, and unwavering spirit.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Clara and Willie Williams; her brothers, Elmer Jenkins and Wiley Williams; and her sisters, Roseanna Williams and Jaennette Williams.
She leaves behind a legacy of love through her devoted husband, Jackie Beard Sr., and her beloved children: Dr. Jackie Beard Jr. (Jena) of Fort Myers, FL; Micheal Beard (Angela) of Ocala, FL; Chris Beard of Detroit, MI; and Jackeria Beard of Fort Myers, FL. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Shivone White, Cedriyuna Strickland, Jackie Warren Beard, and Christopher Beard Jr. (CJ); her great-grandchild, Lauryn Hagan; and a host of nieces, nephews, godchildren, and friends.
Cherishing her memory are John (Lizzie) Jenkins of Archer, FL; Leola Hutchinson of Hawthorne, FL; Willie (Diana) Williams of Hawthorne, FL; Tommy Williams of Valdosta, GA; Emma (Willie) Brooks of Grove Park, FL; and Jeanette Gant of High Springs, FL.
Mrs. Clara Beard's life was a beautiful testimony of faith, love, and service. She was truly one of a kind. Strong in spirit, generous in heart, and unwavering in her devotion to God and family.