Christine Beard

Christine Louise Beard, 74, of Decatur, Texas, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2024. Born on October 29, 1950 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to James Garfield and Dorthy (Weis) Vetterly. Christine grew up in the steel city before moving to Decatur, where she made her home and raised her family.

A woman of remarkable strength and determination, Christine retired from James Wood Motors, but her work ethic and commitment to others led her to return to the workforce at Chico ISD, where she later retired a second time. She was known for her tenacity, independence, and her ability to lead by example in every aspect of her life.

Christine’s greatest joy was being a grandmother and great-grandmother. Her family was the heart of her life, and she cherished spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also enjoyed her Pittsburgh Steelers, cooking, bowling, and gardening—activities that reflected her vibrant, creative spirit.

Christine is survived by her beloved husband, Randall Beard; daughters Melissa (Rusty) Rogers of Oklahoma City, OK, and Erin (Ray) Hamm of Decatur, TX; sons Jay Guthrie of Fort Worth, TX, Christopher Abbs of São Paulo, Brazil, and John (Elizabeth) Abbs of Azle, TX; grandchildren Eric, Michael, Stephanie, Allison, Alexis, Carrie, Maggie, Reagan, Jayton, Brett, Tanner, Kali, James, and Benjamin; and great-grandchildren Ayden, Raiden, Sloane, Raylee, Kayson, and Adilynn.

She is also survived by her sisters Patty (John) Henke of Slippery Rock, PA, Susan Bon of Clarion, PA, and Maryann Edinger of Franklin, PA; and brother Jimmy (Rose) Vetterly of Pittsburgh, PA. She was preceded in death by her parents, as well as her loved ones James J. Guthrie, James R. Abbs, and Cali Guthrie.

Christine will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy of love, strength, and independence will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of being part of her life.