July 6, 2024, 74, Smithfield –

Ossie Vaden Beard Jr., 74, departed this life Saturday, July 6, 2024, at SECU Hospice House in Smithfield surrounded by his loving family. Born July 21, 1949, in Wayne County, he was the son of the late Ossie Vaden Beard Sr. and Maggie Johnson Beard.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Larry Whaley.

Ossie was a graduate of Rosewood High School and loved sports. He was an avid Tarheel fan. In his eyes, he was UNC’s #1 fan and he truly bled Tarheel blue.

He loved his family and especially his grandson, Joseph. One would say that Joseph was the apple of his eye and held the key to his heart. He thoroughly enjoyed watching him play baseball.

As much as Ossie loved sports and as much as he loved his family, nothing compared to his love for God. He was a strong man of faith and taught his family to love God as well.

His memory will forever linger in the hearts of his beloved daughter Amber Lund and husband Joseph; grandson, Joseph Lund; sister, Margaret Whaley; niece, Leigh Ann Hickman and husband Glenn; nephew, Larry Whaley Jr.; and other relatives and friends.

The family would like to especially thank the 4th and 6th Floor Nursing staff of UNC Wayne and the entire staff of SECU Hospice House of Smithfield.

The celebration of his life will be private. At Ossie’s request, please make memories with family and friends.

Donations can be made in Ossie’s memory to www.cryfreedommissions.com and https://www.johnstonhealthfoundation.org/home/program-funds/hospice/.

Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.