Goldie M. Beard, 96, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Dec. 18, 2011, in Oak Harbor.

Mrs. Beard was born in Lebanon, Mo., on Dec. 17, 1915, to Ernest and Myrtle (Charlton) Van Hooser. She was raised in Lebanon. On Oct. 13, 1934, Goldie married Joseph Beard. They lived in Klamath Falls, Canyon City, Ore., Ukiah and Orangevale, Caif. (near Sacramento). Goldie moved to Oak Harbor in 2003.

Goldie had a passion for music. She also loved to cook, bake and crochet, and she had a very strong love for her family. She had been a member of the Orangevale Baptist Church.

Goldie is survived by her four children: Jimmie Dale Beard of Graham, Donald Paul Beard (Joanne) of Sedona, Ariz., Kenneth Roy Beard (Mieko) and Mary Sittner (Harley), all of Oak Harbor; eight grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren and one on the way; two brothers, Harold Van Hooser (Arlene) of Yuma, Ariz., and Wallace Van Hooser of Boise, Idaho; brother-in-law Melvin Robinson of Ind.; also, numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joseph Beard (whom she affectionately referred to as “Daddy Joe”) in September 1982; a daughter-in-law, Ardis Beard; two sisters, Lillie May Martin and Jean Robinson; and two brothers, Carl and Earl Van Hooser.

Goldie’s family would like to express their sincere appreciation to Ohana Villa for their loving care and friendship in Goldie’s final years.

A memorial service was held Dec. 21 at Living Hope Foursquare Church, Pastor Garrett Arnold officiating. Family and friends are encouraged to share memories and condolences at www.whidbeymemorial.com.