Jeanne Patricia Barkell Beard, 91, of Beaumont, died Wednesday, July 11, 2012, at Christus Hospital St. Elizabeth, Beaumont.

She was born October 12, 1920, in Superior, Wisconsin, to Ruth Webb Barkell and Russell Barkell, and had been a resident of the area most of her life. Jeanne was a retired advisor for Lamar University and a member of St. Andrews Presbyterian Church.

Jeanne was a beloved mother and grandmother. She enjoyed spending time with her family, was an avid reader, loved playing bridge with her family, and she loved cooking for family and friends.

Survivors include her daughter, Patricia Beard of Beaumont; grandson, Jeremy Smith and his wife, Valerie, of Lumberton; great-grandchildren, Sullivan Smith, Hannah Smith, and Sierra Smith; brother-in-law, Louis Henry Beard and his wife, Carrie, of Beaumont; sisters-in-law, Betty Sue Knight of Madisonville and Lucile Allardyce of Beaumont.

Jeanne is preceded in death by her husband, Martin Beard; and son, Martin Beard, Jr.

A gathering of Mrs. Beard’s family and friends will begin at 10:00 a.m., with her funeral service to follow at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, July 14, 2012, at Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont. Her interment will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Beaumont.

Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, 700 North Street, Suite M, Beaumont, Texas 77701; St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, 1350 North 23rd Street, Beaumont, Texas 77706; or Humane Society of Southeast Texas, P.O. Box 1629, Beaumont, Texas 77704.

The family would like to send a special thank you to her caregivers Barbara Sears, Jeanette Narcisse, and Rosie Guillory. No words can describe what their friendship and assistance has meant over the years. Also, thanks to Dr. Minesh Patel and his wonderful caring staff for their unwavering care and support, especially over the last three months.