Rita Louise Beard

Rita Louise Beard, 84, of Clawson, Michigan, passed away on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. She loved people and worked hard to introduce them to the Lord and Savior whom she knew and served. She wanted all to experience the love and joy she found. She could usually be found serving and helping at her church.

Rita was born on November 28, 1941, in Salem, Missouri, to the late Lester and Cleola Stanley. Her family moved to Pontiac, Michigan in 1943. Rita obtained her bachelor's degree in elementary education from Oakland University where she was a charter class member. before furthering her education with a master's degree in library science from Wayne State University. Her education would continue later in life as well by obtaining a certificate in Theology.

She began her career in education teaching first grade and worked as a librarian at Oakland Schools. In 1964, she married the love of her life, Donald Beard, and started a family. While raising her two boys, she was a mom who was always there for everything. She also volunteered her time at the library when the children were in school. Rita was a partner in Beard & Associates LLC, which was just recently elected "Best Accountant in Royal Oak, MI for 2026" which is the third time for this honor. She assisted in establishing and growing the business from its beginning in 1999 until 2022 when she stepped down. Rita was a respected teacher, guide, helper, and supporter of her friends and family.

As a woman of strong faith, she and her husband spent time in ministry together at Restoration Ministries Inc. (RMI). She held the position of Woman's Ministry Director and Chairwoman of God's Daughters Convocation, during which time she taught several women's Bible Studies and ministered to more than 2,500 women, making many lifelong friends and helping many people along the way. She will be greatly missed by all who crossed her path.

Beloved wife of Donald for 61 years. Loving mother of Merlyn Beard (Cherub), founder of and Music Director for Oakland Home School Music, Inc. (OHMI), and John Beard (Cynthia). Devoted grandmother of Daniel Beard (Autumn Wiborg-Beard), Andrew Beard, and Sophia Beard. Proud great-grandmother of Mason Adrian-Wiborg, Evan Beard, and Olivia Beard. Dear sister of Lesta Belpedio (James). Also survived by nieces, nephews, cousins, and great-nieces and nephews, as well as many friends.

Family will receive friends on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, from 2:00 pm-8:00 pm at A.J. Desmond & Sons Funeral Home, 2600 Crooks Rd. (between Maple/Big Beaver) Troy, MI 48084.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at 11:00 am at Wisdom City Church, 1349 W. Wattles Rd. Troy, MI 48098. Visitation begins at the church at 10:00 am.

Interment will follow at Oakland Hills Memorial Gardens in Novi, Michigan.