Elva Maxine Beard, 92
Graveside funeral services for Elva Maxine Beard, 92, of Mountain Home, Arkansas, were held April 22, 2025, in the Smith Chapel Cemetery north of Gainesville with Wayne Stewart officiating.
Elva Maxine Beard, beloved mother, sister and friend, died peacefully on April 16. Born Elva Coatney on Aug. 6, 1932, in Cabool, she was the second of seven children born to Charles and Daisy Coatney.
Elva was raised on the rugged and beautiful Caney Mountain Refuge, where she developed her lifelong love for the outdoors, especially gardening and bird watching. She had a quick wit, a tireless work ethic and a resilient spirit that carried her through life’s many adventures.
On June 27, 1952, Elva married the love of her life, Huegh Beard. Their early years of marriage were spent in Georgia while Huegh completed his service in the U.S. Air Force. Together, they journeyed westward, living in Kansas City, Kansas, Texas and eventually settling in New Mexico. There, they planted deep roots, started businesses (something Elva poured her heart into) and built a loving home. Elva eventually returned home to the Ozarks with Huegh to raise their children and run their business from Mountain Home.
Elva and Huegh adopted their son, Roger, in 1960 and their daughter, Lizette, in 1969. Elva poured her heart into raising her children and nurturing her home with care, strength and a deep well of love.
Elva leaves behind a legacy of determination, sharp wit and quiet strength. Her hands shaped gardens and homes, her eyes tracked songbirds with joy and her stories and smile enriched the lives of those who knew her.
She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family and all who had the blessing of knowing her.
She is survived by her children: Roger Beard, Lizette (and Teddy) Dillinger; and her siblings: Levita Turley, Retha Friend and Denny Coatney.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Daisy Coatney; her husband, Huegh Beard; and her siblings: Dick Coatney, Freda Friend, Charlotte Hanks and a half-sister Marjorie Gann.
Arrangements are under the direction of Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville. www.clinkingbeardfuneralhome.com