Mr. Wardell Beard answered the call of Jesus Christ to come home on Friday, August 5, 2022, at his residence in Lansing, Michigan at the age of 70 years old. He was born on May 19, 1952, in Brookhaven, Mississippi. The son of Zeola and Herman Beard, Sr.

Wardell professed his faith in Jesus Christ at an early age at his home church, New Hope Baptist Church in Brookhaven, Mississippi. He was a graduate of Eva H. Harris High School, Class of 1970, also in Brookhaven. Wardell moved to Lansing, Michigan where he became employed with General Motors. He enjoyed spending time with his family, shooting pool (in his younger years), and watching his favorite sports teams play.

Wardell had an infectious smile. He was always optimistic. He loved everyone and never met a stranger. Over the years, Wardell was a father figure to many young men and gave them a safe place to stay and get on their feet. He was a giver, helping anyone he could.

Although Wardell’s health was failing, he NEVER complained. He fought!  He was a modern-day HERO to his family. A devoted father, loving grandfather, loyal brother, great uncle, and an amazing friend. Wardell will be dearly and sorely missed.
He leaves to cherish his memory his dedicated son, Marlon Wardell Beard of Lansing, Michigan; loyal daughter, Crystal Blair of Memphis, Tennessee; grandchildren, ShaKaria, William, DeAndra, Demar, Keora, Marlon, Jr., Shaquille, MaKayla, Mariah (Phillip Moore, Jr.), Ta’Naysha, Diamond, MacKenzie, and Genesis; siblings, Theola Benson, Gladys Beard, Herman (Ann) Beard, Jr., Cecilia Beard, Sandra Torry, Hollis Beard, Ward Beard, Annette McGhee, and Jennifer (John) Patterson; many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Marshawn Beard; sisters, Mary Helen Beard and Vanessa Beard.