Joseph Alton Beard, 82, died Sunday March 15, 2015. He was born November 17, 1932 in Nash County, son of the late Lester J. and Rene Bullard Beard. Joseph was also preceded in death by a sister, Vivian Rita Beard and brothers, John Lester Beard, Marcus D. Beard and William A. Beard, his niece Susan Beard Bunn.

He is survived by his nephews, John Lester Beard, Jr. and Michael James Beard, both of Nash County and a niece, Ann Beard Heil, of Jarrettsville, MD; several great nephews and special friend Brenda Edwards.

A funeral Mass was held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church Wednesday, March 18, 2015, with the Fr. Tim Mears officiating. Burial will follow at Pineview Cemetery.

Arrangements by Heritage Oaks Funeral and Cremations Services, RockyMount.