John Cleveland Beard

John Cleveland Beard II, age 81, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family.

He was the son of the late Ida Wilma and John Jackson Beard. He was born in Columbus, Ohio on September 3, 1944.

He served in the United States Navy and as a Correctional Officer at the historic Ohio Penitentiary in Columbus. He served as a Lieutenant at Jackson Township Fire Department from 1974-1986 as a firefighter/paramedic. He then served as a Franklin County Deputy Sheriff from 1987-1995. After retirement from public service, he worked at Walmart from 2004-2019. He enjoyed hunting, camping, bowling , and traveling.

He is survived by Anita, his wife of 51 years; his sons John C III (Kim), William (Kathy), Robert, and Anthony (Cindy) Beard; 11 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, sister Barbara Ann Bell, and one great nephew. As well as special friends; Linda Ashcraft, Steve and Julie Peitsmeyer, and Les and Sandie Guy.

John was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Sherie Beard, who passed away in 1971, and special friend Dannie Ashcraft.

In lieu of flowers the family is requesting donations be made to Adena Health Foundation to support hospice care.

The family would like to thank Jackson Township Fire Department Honor Guard, Franklin County Sheriff Department Honor Guard, American Legion Post #417, and Adena Hospice.

Friends may call at the NEWCOMER SOUTHWEST CHAPEL 3393 Broadway, Grove City, Ohio 43123 on Thursday, August 13, 2026 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm and 6:00pm to 8:00pm, and again on Friday, August 14, 2026 from 10:00am until time of funeral service at 11:00am. Interment to follow at Waterloo Cemetery.