William Carl Beard

William Carl Beard

January 29, 1933 – November 9, 2025

William Carl Beard was embraced by the loving arms of Jesus on November 9, 2025, at the age of 92, just as he always said he would, living a full and blessed life beyond 90 years.

Carl was born on January 29, 1933, in Beeville, Texas, to Georgia Fay and Sebe Herman “Curly” Beard. When he was three years old, the family moved to Odessa, Texas, where Carl would make his lifelong home and community.

In 1947, as a young student at Crockett Junior High School, Carl met the beautiful Margaret McDonald, beginning what would become a lifetime of love and devotion. Their romance continued through Odessa High School, where they both graduated in 1951.

Carl, who started in center field for three years and never made an error, helped lead the Odessa High Broncho's baseball team to the state championship his junior year; those skills allowed him to attend the University of Arizona on athletic scholarships, while Margaret attended Baylor University. The two were married on May 29, 1952, and soon reunited in Tucson to complete their education together, both graduating in 1955.

After college, Carl began a long and meaningful career in teaching and coaching, where he inspired countless young people through his example of integrity, faith, and perseverance. During his summers off, he served the community as a Deputy Sheriff with Ector County. Later, he pursued business opportunities in the oil industry before returning to education, ultimately retiring as Superintendent of Maintenance and Custodians for Ector County ISD.

In retirement, Carl found joy in the simple pleasures that mattered most: playing golf, traveling, and gathering with his family, especially for their treasured Sunday lunches. His deep faith and love for family were the foundations of his life.

On March 20, 2005, Carl’s beloved Margaret was called home to her heavenly Father. Though his heart ached for her, Carl found love again when he met Sherrie White. They were married on August 14, 2010, sharing 16 precious years together filled with laughter, golf, and adventure.

Carl was preceded in death by his parents, Georgia Fay Price and Sebe Herman “Curly” Beard; his cherished wife, Mary Margaret McDonald Beard; his son, William Martelle Beard; and his grandson, Richard Justin Jorgensen.

He is survived by his loving wife, Sherrie White Beard; his son, Randy Beard and wife, Sandra; his daughter, Molly Taylor and husband, Dennis; and his stepdaughter, Missy Melton-Hawley and husband, Luther. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and seven great-great-grandchildren, who will carry on his legacy of love, faith, and family.

Family visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. A celebration of Carl’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 13, 2025 at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. A burial will follow after services at Sunset Memorial Gardens.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Senior Adult Ministry at First Baptist Church of Odessa, in honor of his enduring faith and servant heart.

Carl’s life was a testament to the goodness of God; a steady, faithful man who loved deeply, served selflessly, and left behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and grace. Though his earthly journey has ended, we rejoice knowing he is now whole and home with his Savior.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day.” — 2 Timothy 4:7–8