Jane Edna Beard

Jane Edna Beard of Dunkirk, Maryland was born on March 27, 1941, to the late Forst and Edna Phillips. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on January 21, 2026. Originally from Washington, D.C., Jane devoted her life to learning, family, and service to others.

Jane earned degrees from Georgetown College in Kentucky and Bowie State University in Maryland. She spent 24 meaningful years as an educator, teaching English to middle and high school students in Prince George’s County, Maryland, where she made a lasting impact on countless young lives. She was a resident of Dunkirk for the last 45 years.

In 1966, Jane married the love of her life, Roy, and together they built a life rooted in love, devotion, and shared experiences. She is survived by her children, Monty (Lori) Beard of Annapolis, Maryland, and Julia (Colt) Neumann of Orlando, Florida; her beloved grandson James; her sisters, Janet Cord, Marilyn Sarlin, and Frances Norton; her brother Phillip Phillips; and many cherished nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her sister, Martha Young.

Jane will be fondly remembered as an avid reader of John Grisham novels and a passionate collector of figurines, clocks, Norman Rockwell prints, and antique furniture. She especially treasured the time she spent with Roy antiquing, enjoying countless Saturdays together in search of the next memorable find. Her warmth, professionalism, and genuine care for others will be missed; she will be remembered for her legacy of love, curiosity, and compassion.

A celebration of Jane’s life will be held on Thursday, January 29 at Lee Funeral Home in Owings, Maryland. Visitation begins at 10 AM with service at Noon. Internment will immediately follow the service at Southern Memorial Gardens in Dunkirk.