Graveside funeral services for Elva Maxine Beard of Mtn Home, AR, will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, April 22, 2025 in the Smith Chapel Cemetery north of Gainesville, MO. Officiating will be Wayne Stewart. Visitation will be Tuesday afternoon from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the Clinkingbeard Funeral Home chapel, Gainesville, MO.
Elva Maxine Beard, beloved mother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2025, at the age of 92. Born Elva Coatney on August 6, 1932, in Cabool, Missouri, she was the second of seven children born to Charles and Daisy Coatney.
Elva was raised on the rugged and beautiful Caney Mountain Refuge, where she developed her lifelong love for the outdoors, especially gardening and bird watching. She had a quick wit, a tireless work ethic, and a resilient spirit that carried her through life’s many adventures.
On June 27, 1952, Elva married the love of her life, Huegh Beard. Their early years of marriage were spent in Georgia while Huegh completed his service in the U.S. Air Force. Together, they journeyed westward, living in Kansas City, Kansas, Texas, and eventually settling in New Mexico. It was there that they planted deep roots, started businesses (something Elva poured her heart into), and built a loving home. Elva eventually returned home to the Ozarks with Huegh to raise their children and run their business from Mountain Home.
Elva and Huegh adopted their son, Roger, in 1960 and their daughter, Lizette, in 1969. Elva poured her heart into raising her children and nurturing her home with care, strength, and a deep well of love.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Daisy Coatney; her husband, Huegh Beard; and her sibling Dick Coatney, Fredia Dodson, Charlotte Hanks and a half sister Marjorie Gann.
She is survived by her children Roger Beard, Lizette (and Teddy) Dillinger; and her siblings Levita Turley, Retha Friend, and Denny Coatney.
Elva leaves behind a legacy of determination, sharp wit and quiet strength. Her hands shaped gardens and homes, her eyes tracked songbirds with joy, and her stories and smile enriched the lives of those who knew her.
She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family and all who had the blessing of knowing her.
Arrangements are under the direction of Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville, MO. www.clinkingbeardfuneralhome.com
