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Ron Beaird, a devoted husband, father, and proud veteran, passed away on May 4, 2026 at the age of 83 from ALS. Born on December 30, 1942, in Santa Monica, California, he was the son of the late Victor Vance Beaird and Bettie Jean Elkins Beaird.
A man of service, he joined the United States Army in November 1963. He served honorably in Thailand from 1964 to 1965 during the Vietnam era before being discharged in November 1966. His commitment to his country remained a point of pride throughout his life.
He met Jean Marie Meisgeier at church and over the course of their 3 year relationship, he proposed many times, only to be turned down. Finally, at a John Denver concert, Ron said, “I’m going to ask you one more time, will you marry me?” He was completely surprised when she said yes, and on June 5, 1975, he married the love of his life. Together, they built a life centered on family and faith. He was a proud and supportive father to his two sons, Scott Glenn (born 1978) and Shawn William (born 1983).
Before retiring, Ron worked many years for Western Airlines and then Delta Airlines, always working with steadfastness at whatever role he was in. In his leisure time, Ron collected lighthouses and loved the simple joy of watching Heartland. Above all, his life was defined by his relationship with Jesus. He found great comfort and strength in his faith and kept his eyes on the Lord until the very end.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Jean; their sons and daughters-in-laws, Scott and Tracey (Thomason) Beaird, and Shawn and Heather (Duenas) Beaird; and his five cherished grandchildren: Kian Glenn, Emelyn Kate, Graeson Robert, Kellen Knox, and Kaia Nohealani. He also leaves behind his sisters, Lorna Farrant of Oceanside, CA, and Loris Mills (Glenn) of Cambria, CA, as well as his niece, Allison Russell of Missouri.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Gloria Beaird.
Celebrating 75 years of serving our community