John Wilford Beard

John Wilford Beard, 91, of Holmwood, La, passed away at 5:40 AM, Sunday, August 14, 2022.

Born in Holmwood on February 16, 1931, he was raised in Sweetlake where he met and married his life-long love, Betty Jane Billedeaux in 1950. Affectionately known as Wilford, he proudly served in the United States Marine Corp during the Korean Conflict from 1952-54, attaining the rank of Sergeant. Wilford and Betty lived in Lake Charles before eventually moving to Holmwood in 1973 where he retired as a supervisor for Sline Industrial Painters after many years of dedicated service. He was a member of St. John Vianney Catholic Church in Bell City and also belonged to the Woodmen of the World where he served as past President. Wilford was very proud of his French heritage.

Wilford was always working in his yard and was known for his creativity and remarkable wood working, particularly the elaborate bird houses he constructed. He was an avid squirrel and dove hunter and took pleasure in fishing with Betty. 

Those left to cherish Wilford's memory are his children, Cindy Smith (Joel), Joann Beard, and Tammy Beard (Marcie); grandchildren, David Williams (Amanda), Amanda Landreneau (Jason), Johnathon Guidry (Jessica), Janie Zaunbrecher (Conrad), and Katie Guidry; great grandchildren, Hailey and Brylee Williams, Hannah Babineaux (B.J.), Madison and Presley Landreneau, Elliott and Emory Zaunbrecher, and Jax Thibeaux; and two great-great granddaughters on the way.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Betty Jane Beard; parents, Wilbert and Eunice Beard; brother, Wilton Beard; and a sister, Doris Beard.

Visitation will begin on Saturday at 11:00 AM. followed by the funeral service at 2:00 PM on Saturday, August 20, 2022 in the Johnson Funeral Home chapel. Deacon Josh Page will officiate. Burial will follow in Prien Memorial Park.