David Beard

(From Konantz Warden Funeral Home)

January 6, 1953 – October 17, 2026

David Joseph Beard Sr. was born on January 6, 1953, to Oleph Clair Beard and Amanda Irene Skirvin Beard. At approximately ten years old, David gave his heart to the Lord and began a lifelong journey of faith. He was first baptized in a pond near Olathe, Kansas. After his baptism, David decided to go swimming, despite not knowing how to swim! 

His mother was understandably horrified, while the rest of the family found the situation rather amusing. True to his independent spirit, David always marched to the beat of his own drum. He was baptized several more times throughout his life, continuing to grow in his faith and relationship with God. 

During his early teenage years, David was saved, sanctified, filled with the Holy Ghost, and became a member of the Church of God of Prophecy. His faith remained a central part of his life and would ultimately lead him to answer God’s call to ministry.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Oleph Clair Beard and Amanda Irene Skirvin Beard; his beloved wife, Cathy Jane Edwards Beard; and his son, Bradley E. Beard.

He leaves behind his sister, Naomi Beard Rector; his children, Starla Tomlinson, David Beard Jr. and his wife, Nikki, and Christy Vance; fourteen grandchildren; and a host of cherished great-grandchildren.

His grandchildren include Austin Vance and his wife, Baylea; Kaiden Byram and his wife, Cheyenne; Braidon Beard; Aaron Beard; Lee Tomlinson; Connor Beard; Alyssa Beard; Caylee Beard; Tucker Beard; Carlee Beard Wuerdeman and her husband, Justin; Sydney Beard; and Jesse Beard. His family was a tremendous source of love and joy throughout his life, and his legacy will continue through the generations who loved him.

Throughout his life, David worked in several different positions, including work at Wichita Southeast. He also served with the Pittsburg, Kansas, Police Department Reserve, proudly served his country in the United States Reserve, and dedicated time to Meals on Wheels, helping serve members of his community.

In 2003, David answered God’s call to become a minister and pastor in Liberal, Missouri. He loved preaching the Word of God and was known for his enthusiasm and excitement when he felt the presence of the Lord. He loved his congregation deeply and viewed those he served as much more than church members; they were his friends and family.

David was truly a jack-of-all-trades and became affectionately known as “Mr. Fix-It.” His ministry extended far beyond the pulpit. He could often be found helping elderly members of his congregation with whatever they needed. Whether serving as a chauffeur, helping someone move, or tackling plumbing repairs, David was always willing to lend a hand. His servant’s heart was evident in the countless ways he cared for others.

If you knew David, you probably knew about his love of fishing! It was one of his greatest joys, beginning when he was around ten years old. His mother would take him fishing, sparking a lifelong passion filled with countless adventures and treasured memories. Fishing was more than a hobby for David; it was a source of happiness and a special part of who he was. It is our hope that his grandsons will share some of their favorite fishing stories and memories in his honor. 

David married the love of his life, Cathy Jane Edwards, in 1972. Even before their marriage, the two shared a heart for serving others. They visited nursing homes in Pittsburg, Kansas, where they played music and sang hymns for residents. Together, they delivered food to the elderly, cleaned the church, and provided rides to anyone who wanted to attend services. They also devoted their time to Kansas youth camps and Vacation Bible School. Their lives were a beautiful example of faith in action, compassion, and dedication to the Lord and their community.

David had a remarkable ability to make friends wherever he went. From longtime high school friends to familiar faces at the Pittsburg Walmart, where he was known on a first-name basis, he built lasting relationships throughout his life. He considered the people he pastored his friends and held a special place in his heart for his Meals on Wheels family. He loved meeting new people, remembered those he encountered, and made others feel welcome and valued. David was well known and deeply loved in Liberal, Missouri, and his friendships were a testament to the warmth and generosity he shared with others.

David was truly one of a kind. He lived life with his own unique spirit, an unwavering faith in God, a generous heart, and a willingness to help anyone in need. Whether he was preaching the Gospel, serving his community, sharing a fishing story, or enjoying time with family and friends, he left an impression on those fortunate enough to know him.

On October 17, 2026, David went home to paradise. Though his presence will be deeply missed, the memories he created, the lives he touched, the faith he shared, and the love he gave will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. His life was a testament to the importance of faith, service, laughter, and loving others.

In Memory of David

If you want to remember David, enjoy a slice of cherry pie, a Fudgsicle, or a bag of chips, and wash it down with a Dr Pepper. And perhaps, when you are out fishing, you will think of David, smile, and remember a man who lived life his own way and loved the Lord.

A Memorial Service will be held at Konantz Warden Funeral Home on Saturday October 24, 2026 at 4:00 PM.