William Kelly Kelly Beard

William Kelly Beard, Jr. 89 died on July 10, 2024, at Merits Medical Center. He loved life and was known to be a ringleader who brought people together. His favorite place was on a tennis court, his second on a sailboat. He liked to be active and socialize and was an enthusiastic dancer. He was often found telling a humorous story or teasing his friends and family. Ever curious, he was ready to travel, exploring new places worldwide and trying local delicacies and traditions. 

Born on Oct 15, 1934, and raised in Scarsdale, NY., Bill graduated from Scarsdale High in 1952. He continued to Dartmouth College earning a BA in mechanical engineering, Class of 1956 with a follow-on Master program, finishing with the Class of 1957.

His career started w Carrier Corp in Syracuse, NY in 1957. After he married the love of life, his late wife, Phyllis Ann Padgett in Hamilton, NY in 1959, their international adventures began! Carrier Corp transferred him as Managing Director to Johannesburg, South Africa in 1967 and then to Beirut, Lebanon in 1970. There were a lot of incredible excursions and friends made during that time, memories of laughter and fun. 

In 1974, Bill and family returned to Syracuse, NY. He stayed with Carrier Corp until accepting a position as Director of International Services with Frick Company in Waynesboro, PA that brought the family to Hagerstown, MD. In 1981. He retired from Frick Company in 1994. 

In his post-career life, he embraced a life of volunteer civil service. His dedication to MIHI (Many Individuals Helping Individuals) Commission on Aging, Maryland Preservation, Washington County Historical Trust, Washington County Museum of Fine Art, St John’s Episcopal Church, Rotary, Corporation for Assisted Living, SCORE and many others, spanned decades. His office wall of service awards were not the reason he was so committed; he cared about others. 

Bill is survived by his children Robert Beard, Laura Beard, Carolyn Beard and grandson, William Nathaniel Beard and a huge circle of friends world-wide. His children and grandson are proud of his accomplishments and the impact he had on the local community. We appreciate the warm memories and funny stories so many have shared. 

May the wind be always at your back, Dad! 

Services will be held at St John’s Episcopal Church 101 S. Prospect St., Hagerstown MD on Saturday, August 3rd at 11:00 AM with a reception immediately following. In lieu of flowers, the family is accepting donations in memory of Bill to the Commission on Aging, 535 E Franklin St. Hagerstown MD 21740.