SEND FLOWERS
Obituary
Stella Beard, cherished mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away on May 20, 2026, in Birmingham, Alabama, at the age of 92. Born on June 17, 1933, in Wheelwright, Kentucky, she was a beacon of love and warmth to her family and all who knew her.
Stella's life was a testament to her devotion as a mother and a grandmother. Her nurturing spirit and loving heart were evident in every meal she lovingly prepared and every moment she shared with her family. She took immense joy in being a mother and found true fulfillment in raising her children with kindness and grace. Her kitchen was a haven where countless memories were made, as she delighted in sharing her passion for cooking with those she loved.
A woman of deep faith, Stella's love for the Lord was the guiding light of her life. She lived each day with a profound sense of gratitude and purpose, drawing strength from her unwavering belief and inspiring those around her to do the same.
Preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joseph Beard, her great-granddaughter, Grace Eleanor Gillikin, Stella is survived by her children, Mary Ann (Lawrence) Gillikin, William Samuel (Aida) Beard, and Vonda (Tom) Widmer. She also leaves behind her treasured grandchildren, Tommy (Lindsie) Widmer, Lindsay (Jeff) Gray, Daniel (Shelby) Beard, Nathan (Sydney) Beard, Adam (Sarah) Gillikin, Amber (Anthony) White, Ashlee (Michael) Niesyto, Joseph Beard, and Julia Beard, along with her adored great-grandchildren, Ayla, Averie, Belle, Camden, Addie, Ethan, Kinsley, Stella, Reagan, Isla, Brady, Mason, Lyla, Haven, and Mia.
Stella's legacy is one of love, faith, and family. Her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched, and her spirit will continue to guide and inspire the lives of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
