William W. "Bill" Beard

William "Bill" W. Beard, a man of deep faith, quiet strength, and generous spirit, entered into eternal rest on Monday, September 1, 2025 at the age of 75 surrounded by the love of his family and in the peace of God's promise. He was born in Port Huron, Michigan on December 5, 1949, to the late Ward Powers Beard and Lucie Palmer (Meade) Beard. Bill lived a life grounded in his Catholic faith, guided daily by his unwavering belief in God and a steadfast commitment to doing God's will.
Bill's life was rich with purpose and filled with both quiet moments of reflection and joyful expressions of creativity. A master woodworker and lifelong do-it-yourselfer, he found great satisfaction in using his hands to build, fix, and create, often lending his time and skills to others without hesitation. His passion for painting, kayaking, and biking reflected his appreciation for beauty, movement, and stillness alike. He especially enjoyed time outdoors, and he never turned down the chance to travel, especially to warm, sun-filled destinations.
With a deep appreciation for history and genealogy, Bill took great pride in researching the Beard family legacy, always anchoring himself in the stories of those who came before. He was a proud graduate of Eastern Michigan University, where he earned a Master's Degree in Psychology. Over the course of his career, Bill devoted himself to helping others through his work in various counseling organizations, always practicing compassion and listening with his whole heart.
A devoted parishioner of St. Jude’s Thaddeus Parish ~ St. John the Evangelist Church in Essexville, Bill lived his faith in both word and deed. Those who knew him remember his kindness, his humility, and the way he quietly made the world a gentler, better place.
Among the many blessings in Bill's life, none was more precious than his marriage to Connie (Schmidt) Beard on September 10, 2022, in the very heart of his faith community. Their love was a gift and a testament to the enduring power of faith and companionship.
Bill is survived by his loving wife Connie; his children, Alex (Shannon Osburn) Beard and Jennifer (Matt) Pero; and his grandchildren Natalie and Addison Beard, Phoebe Osburn, and Brett, Landric, and Ashtyn Pero, who brought him great pride and joy. He is also survived by his sister Mary (Steven) Campbell; brothers James Palmer Beard and Thomas Hodajah (Diane) Beard; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews. Bill was preceded in death by his loving wife of 26 years, Annette O'Brien; his son, Eric Beard; and his brother, Russell Beard.
Bill's family would like to express their gratitude to Dr. Nourkeyhani and the Covenant Oncology Team.
Bill's family welcomes visitors to Squires Funeral Home, 211 N. Henry Street, Bay City, Michigan, on Sunday, September 7, 2025 from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m., with a Vigil Service at 6:00 p.m. The Funeral Mass for Bill will be at St. Jude’s Thaddeus Parish on Monday, September 8, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. Visitation will continue at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Bill's Funeral Mass. Fr. Dale Orlik and Fr. Jim Bessert will concelebrate with the Rite of Committal to be held privately at St. Patrick Cemetery. Those planning an expression may consider the Wishes of the Family in care of Connie Beard. Online condolences may be offered at www.squiresfuneralhome.com
"Well done, good and faithful servant." – Matthew 25:23