Ronald Nolan Beard, Jr.

 

Ronald Nolan Beard, Jr., affectionately known as Junior, has left behind a legacy of living life to its fullest.
Born on January 22, 1998, in Little Rock, Arkansas, Junior's vibrant spirit touched the lives of all who
knew him. It is with a heavy heart that we announce his passing on December 29, 2023.

Junior was a man who embraced adventure and sought joy in every moment. He had an insatiable
passion for sports and eagerly followed football, baseball, basketball, and golf. Whether cheering on his
favorite team, the Razorbacks, or engaging in friendly debates with fellow enthusiasts, Junior's
enthusiasm for the game was contagious. He had an infectious laugh and always brought smiles to
everyone’s face with his singing and dancing.

In addition to his love for sports, Junior found solace in the great outdoors. Hunting and fishing allowed
him to connect with nature and find tranquility in its embrace. He also enjoyed the thrill of horse racing
and the friendly competition that accompanied a game of pool or shooting dice at the casino. But
perhaps one of Junior's greatest joys was riding motorcycles whether it be dirt bikes or his prized Harley,
feeling the wind rush through his hair as he embraced the freedom of the open road.

Family was of utmost importance to Junior. He eagerly anticipated vacations at his grandmother's home
in California, the Smokey Mountains, Snow Skiing in Boone, NC, Nashville to see Predators play, fishing at
Gaston’s resort and his utmost favorite Gulf Shores creating cherished memories that would forever
hold a special place in his heart. But it wasn't just blood relatives who held significance in Junior's life; his chosen family held equal importance. His unwavering bond with his best friend since sixth grade,
Gunnar Burks, served as a testament to the loyalty and love he possessed.

Junior will be deeply missed by his parents Ronald and Holly Beard Sr., who will forever cherish their
son's memory. He leaves behind two children, Porter James Beard and Lenox Crue Beard of Benton,
Arkansas. Their mother, Kaylee Henderson of Benton, Arkansas, fondly remembers the love that Junior
showered upon their family.

The bonds between generations were a source of strength and guidance for Junior. He was preceded in
death by his paternal grandfather, Gordan Beard, and his great-grandparents, Virgil "Pum" and Patsy Sanders, and Diane and Frank Holley, who instilled in him values that guided him throughout his life.
Family remained an integral part of Junior's life. He is survived by his maternal grandmother, Deborah
Falero and husband Hector of California, who shared countless memories together. His maternal
grandfather, Mike Sanders and wife Linda of Little Rock, Arkansas, held a special place in his heart.
Junior also leaves behind his paternal grandmother, Wanda Sue Sims of Benton, Arkansas.

Junior's kind spirit and love extended to his extended family as well. His uncle William David Beard and
wife Yolanda of Benton, Arkansas held a cherished place in Junior's heart. Cousins, Savannah Williams and
Kim Beard, brought immense joy to Junior's life with their infectious laughter.

It is heartwarming to reflect on the countless lives touched by Junior's presence. Friends became family
for Junior, marking the depth of connection he forged. There are too many to count that Junior impacted with his friendship, taking time to listen and always a shoulder to lean on, these people
provided him with unwavering support was a constant source of comfort for Junior.

As we remember Junior's vibrant life and mourn his untimely passing, let us gather to celebrate his
memory. Visitation services will be held on January 5, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Smith-
Benton Funeral Home located at 322 N Market Street in Benton, Arkansas. A memorial service will
follow at 11:00 AM to honor the remarkable legacy that Junior leaves behind.

Let us find solace in the memories we shared with Ronald Nolan Beard Jr., a man who lived life
unapologetically and left an indelible mark on our hearts. May his spirit continue to shine brightly as we
hold him close in our memories.