Joan Beckham

Joan Beckham, born on December 9, 1937 in Macomb, Missouri, entered into eternal rest on December 19, 2024, at her home in Wentzville, Missouri, at the age of 87. She was the cherished daughter of George P.J. and Myrtle Irene (Shores) Findley.

On August 14, 1959, Joan married Kenneth Austin Beckham, beginning a devoted partnership that spanned over six decades. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and music.

Joan was baptized as a young girl and remained steadfast in her faith throughout her life. She was a dedicated member of St. Charles Presbyterian Church for many years, where she found joy in serving others. Joan will be remembered for her love of organizing funeral luncheons, preparing meals for Prime Time Wednesday gatherings, and contributing to church bazaars. Her commitment to her church family reflected her generous and compassionate spirit.

Professionally, Joan worked for the St. Charles School District from 1968 until her retirement in 1996. Her dedication to education and her community left a lasting impact on those she served.

Joan is lovingly remembered by her husband, Ken; her son, David Aaron (Lisa) Beckham of Silex; her daughter, Lisa Anne (James) Burnitt of Wentzville; and her grandchildren: Jessica Suzzanne (Aaron) Bennett, Thomas Lynn Burnitt, James Austin Burnitt, Jenna Christine Beckham, and Ian David Beckham. She was also blessed with two great-granddaughters, Katelynn Rose Bennett and Callie Marie Bennett. Joan is survived by her sister Jacqueline Marie (Dewie) Biggs, and numerous beloved cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

She was preceded in death by her Parents, George and Myrtle Findley, and siblings: Shelby E. (Helen) Findley, Robert S. (Birdella) Findley, Gladys Pauline (Loran) Price, James B. (Juanita) Findley, Howard Wayne (Chris) Findley, Michael C. (Elda) Findley, and Harry Noel (Sharon) Findley, and by her Parents-in-law Wick and Gladys Beckham, Sister-in-law Anne Bargen, and Brothers-in-law Dwight (Helen) Beckham, Hugh (Merry) Beckham and Patricia Beckham.

Joan’s warmth and unwavering dedication to her family and faith will be deeply missed by all who knew her. May her memory bring comfort to those she leaves behind.

A Celebration of Life / Memorial Service will be held on January 17th, 2025 at 1 p.m. at St. Charles Presbyterian Church, 131 Gamble St., St. Charles, MO 63301. A meal will be provided afterwards.