Search by Name

Search by Name

FUNERAL HOME

Prugh Funeral Service

8317 N. 4th St.

Burlington, Iowa

William Beaty Obituary

William "Bill" James Beaty, 75, of Middletown passed away at his home July 19, 2025, surrounded by his family and dog Harley (who never left his side).

Born July 15, 1950, in Keokuk, he was the son of Wilfred and Francis Ewers Beaty. He went to Keokuk Senior High School, which he eventually left to start in the workforce.

In 1970 he married Lucille Swinderman but later divorced. Together they had two children, Keith Beaty and Jamie Beaty.

Bill was a member of Operating Engineers Local 148 at Foote Mineral until the strike in 1985 and most of the employees lost their jobs. He sold fireworks and antique reproduction furniture from 1992 until 2004 south of Wayland, Missouri, and worked as a home contractor during that time.

In 2001 he worked as a member of Operating Engineers Local 150 at the Iowa Army Ammunition Plant powerhouse where he eventually retired.

Bill had a passion for fast cars, boating and motorcycling. He spent countless hours polishing and maintaining his possessions. Many would remember his 4th of July celebrations. Bill loved discussing current events and the political landscape which was known to all who knew him.

He enjoyed nothing more than a discussion on the issue of the day. He wasn't afraid to share his perspective on the world. If you knew him you knew.

Survivors include son, Keith Beaty; daughter, Jamie (Michelle) Beaty; grandsons, Austin Irwin and Bryce Irwin; special friend and companion of 20 years, Sandy Helling; sisters, Janet Beaty and Rosemary Touhey Stewart; many nieces and nephews; and honorary son, Scott Davis.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilfred and Francis; three siblings, Mary Davis, Larry Beaty and Carolyn Hamilton; and his dog, Gunner.

Cremation has been entrusted to the care of Prugh Crematory.

A celebration of life for Bill will be held at the Southside Boat Club (625 Mississippi Drive, Keokuk) on Sept. 6 at 3 p.m.

A memorial has been established for PAW Animal Shelter in Fort Madison.

May his memory forever be a vibrant burst of color to light up the night sky.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.prughfuneral.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Mississippi Valley Publishing on Aug. 2, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for William Beaty

Sponsored by Prugh Funeral Service.

Not sure what to say?





4 Entries

Don Benjamin

August 3, 2025

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.

Judith

July 22, 2025

My heart is saddened by my un le Bill passing. My condolences to the family. He will be greatly missed. Love you Bill.

Holly Beaty Whitson

July 22, 2025

As daughter of Janet, his sister. Both her and I and all of my family will miss him. His time with us and the memories will be with us forever. With love, Holly

Susie Boggs

July 22, 2025

Oh my,thoughts & Prayers at this time of your loss,was a great friend.

Showing 1 - 4 of 4 results

Make a Donation
in William Beaty's name

Memorial Events
for William Beaty

Sep

6

Celebration of Life

3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Southside Boat Club (Mississippi, Keokuk))

Funeral services provided by:

Prugh Funeral Service

8317 N. 4th St., Burlington, IA 52601

How to support William's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor William Beaty's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more