James Glen Beard

James Glen “Jim” Beard of Tetonia, Idaho, passed away on December 16, 2024, at Madison Memorial Hospital in Rexburg, Idaho, following a fall and head injury. Born on July 10, 1935, in Saint Anthony, Idaho, Jim was the youngest child of Richard Stephen Beard, a rancher, and his beloved mother, Pansy Woolstenhulme Beard. He was the youngest of seven siblings: Elda, Sam, Joe, Merlin, Eva, and Betty.

Jim spent his youth in the scenic Teton Valley, growing up in Clawson. He had a childhood full of adventure, playing alongside his siblings and many Beard cousins who were like siblings. He cherished fishing on Spring Creek, swimming, canoeing, and helping his family in the garden. He enjoyed working alongside his Dad with the oxen and in the hay. He loved his mother’s special breads and cookies. He also spent time at the Beard family sawmill, contributing to the family’s trade.

Jim attended school in Tetonia, often traveling by horse and sleigh in the winter. He loved learning, was involved in scouting, and had a deep passion for music. He often sang at family gatherings, church functions, and community plays with his cousins Jeanenne and Gloria Beard. He graduated from Teton High School in 1953 and then served two years in the military, stationed in Germany and California. During the time he served, he especially loved his time spent as a Chaplain's Assistant. He learned about many different religions and enjoyed that very much. After his service, he pursued barber school, and eventually had salons in Texas and Alaska. Jim had a flair for creating beautiful things, from his precision in hairstyling to the artistry of his penmanship, renowned for its elegant, calligraphy-like style.

He owned and operated The Arctic Fox, a charming bed and breakfast in Anchorage. As a chef, he was known for his exceptional cooking, often baking several loaves of bread daily and preparing delicious meals and desserts that brought joy to family and friends. He loved meeting new people and frequently hosted LDS missionaries for Sunday dinners. He made lifelong friendships during his time in Alaska and had many friends and employees that he has kept in touch with. 

While living in Alaska, Jim became a father figure to three boys—Tony, Mike, and Robby—whom he lovingly raised as his own. He shared that guiding them from childhood into adulthood was the greatest joy and highlight of his life. Jim played a pivotal role in their upbringing, particularly in supporting their education and personal growth. 

In the late 1970's, Jim returned to Teton Valley to care for his father, Richard, who passed away in 1977, and he also cared for his mother, Pansy, until her passing in 1988. He remained in Teton Valley, where he enjoyed the company of his siblings, nieces, nephews, and extended family, who meant so much to him. Known for his generous and inclusive nature, Jim never forgot a special occasion. He would send handwritten cards to celebrate milestones, his beautiful penmanship a reflection of his thoughtful and kind spirit.

"James G.", as he was often known as, loved life’s simple pleasures—huckleberry picking in the summers, chopping wood in the fall, and enjoying every season to the fullest. He had a fun sense of humor and a contagious laugh that could light up any room. He found joy and had a great respect for all animals. He loved dogs, especially Yeti, his beloved Chihuahua.

Throughout his life, Jim traveled the world! He loved classic cars of all kinds. His greatest hobby was collecting Continentals and Cadillacs and friends! His cars were a source of pride, and he loved picking up family members for leisurely drives and afternoon outings. Jim loved people. He was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with a deep love for his Heavenly Father. He found peace watching the LDS General Conferences and being on Temple grounds, where he felt deeply connected to his faith. 

Jim is survived by his sister, Betty Burgener of Sandy, Oregon, and many nieces, nephews, and friends. He loved and was proud of all his nieces and nephews across five generations. His big heart, generosity, and laughter will be profoundly missed by all who knew him. Jim approached the world with compassion, care and humility. His legacy lives on in the cherished memories of all who knew his warmth and generosity.

We invite all friends and family to a visitation which will be held on Thursday, December 19, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at Grand Teton Funeral Home, 786 Valley Centre Drive, in Driggs, Idaho. Funeral services will take place on Friday, December 20, 2024, at 11:00 AM at the Tetonia LDS Church, with a viewing prior to the service from 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM. A military ceremony will be conducted to honor Jim's service to his country. Interment will be in the Clawson Cemetery, Tetonia, Idaho.