Edward Lee Beard of Rockford departed this earthly life May 30, 2024. He was born January 10, 1940 in Smackover, AR the son of Ruby Arnold and J.B. Beard. Edward lived in Rockford since 1952 coming from Arkansas.  He married the Edna Mae Hardimon, February of 1971, She preceded him in death. Edward was employed as a machinist by Freeway of Rockford; a tax preparer, later to become a licenses Insurance Agent for Primerica. He was a former member of Christian Union Missionary Baptist Church, later to join Ephesian Missionary Baptist Church.  Edward was a member of the Rockford Travelers league formerly serving as president; Served as the president Hodge Podge Bowling League; a member of the Rockford  bowlers Hall of Fame; dance instructor with the Rock City Unique Steppers.  He was a certified Basketball Referee, with the ISHA; and Certified USSSA Softball umpire also a certified baseball umpire with the state of Illinois . Edward was a bowling coach for Beloit Memorial High School; former basketball coach for the Harlem Boys Club. Edward along with his wife Edna was the foster parent for over 40 children over the years. He attended schools in Arkansas, later to receive his G.E.D; also to attend Rock Valley College.

Edward leaves to cherish many loving memories, two sons, Ellsworth Dismuke and Rodney Hardimon; 8 grandchildren 6 great grandchildren;  brother, Sam "Albert" (Dolly) Ford, 4 god children a host of nieces, nephews cousins other relatives and fiends including special friend and caregiver, Betty Bruce. He was predeceased by  his wife, Edna; daughter, Leslie Ann Beard; parents, J.B. Beard and Ruby Nell Boone; and brothers, R.C. Curry, Jimmy Lee Wilson, and Andre Beard;

Memorial services will be held 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 12, 2024 at the Jefferson Horton American Legion 1010 S. Main St. Rockford, IL 61102 and  6:00p.m. ~ 10:00p.m. Thursday, June 13, 2024 at Don Carter Lanes 4007 E. State St. Rockford, IL 61108