William B. Beard, Jr., age 88 of Turnersville, NJ went to be with his parents, stepfather, sisters and brothers on January 30, 2018. Born in Johnstown PA, he was the oldest child of the late William B. Beard, Sr. and Rosella (nee Mardis) Rorabaugh and stepson of the late Clyde Rorabaugh. He is also predeceased by his brothers Richard, Robert, and Edward and sisters Rosella Marie LeRoy and Emma Lou Raimer. He is survived by his devoted wife of 61 years, Betty (nee Cobb) and his loving children, Delores, Barbara (Jim) Gattinella, William C.(Claire), Michael (Joe), Maureen(Mark) Smith. Proud grandfather of Vanessa, Vincent, Amanda, Jackie, Julia, and Joseph.

Bill spent his early years in Johnstown, PA. At the age of 13, he and four siblings were sent to an orphanage in Lewisburg PA. He loved to share stories with his children of his time there, especially of working on the farm. He graduated from Lewisburg (PA) High School in 1947. At the age of 21, he joined the PA National Guard and served in a medical unit during the Korean War. He achieved the rank of Sgt. After graduating from Glassboro State College (now Rowan University) in 1961, Bill worked as an elementary school teacher at Mary Ethel Costello School in Gloucester City, NJ, for 30 years. He taught science, health, and computers. He loved to be outside doing yard work, tinkering with cars and computers and listening to Big Band music.

Bill was a wonderful mentor to his children and grandchildren.

William’s life will be honored and remembered privately by his family.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill’s memory may be made to the Church of the Good Shepherd, 315 Highland Terrace, Pitman, NJ 08071 or to the American Cancer Society.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.egizifuneral.com