Ellis “Dale” Beard, 83

Funeral services for Ellis “Dale” Beard, 83, of Ava, were held March 30, 2024, in the Clinkingbeard Chapel in Ava with Bill McFarland officiating. Burial followed in the Pine Ridge Cemetery in Wasola, located on Highway 95.

He died on March 27, at Mercy Hospital in Springfield with his family by his side.

Dale was born April 28, 1940, in Gainesville to Johnny McGager Franklin and Nola Faye (White) Beard. Dale was raised in Ozark County.

On Nov. 2, 1962, Dale and Shirley Jackson were married at Independence, and together were blessed with a daughter, Kimberly.

Dale was a longtime dairy farmer. He worked hard on the farm alongside Shirley always giving a helping hand. Dale had a great sense of humor and he loved to play practical jokes on his friends and family. Dale enjoyed fishing and hunting. He also was known for his caring heart and would do anything for anybody. Children loved being around Dale, and the feeling was mutual. He also found great joy in being with his family, his church family and his friends. He was a faithful Christian and elder of the Pine Ridge Church of Christ for several years. He believed in serving others and most of all serving his Lord.

He is survived by his wife, Shirley; his daughter, Kimberly Beard; his sister, Alice Delores Hathcock; nieces; nephews; extended family and numerous friends.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents; his two brothers, Nathaniel and Loran Beard.

​Family requests donations to the Pine Ridge Cemetery. Online condolences may be made to www.clinkingbeardfuneralhome.com.