James "Jamie" Nathan Beard, age 51, of Lenoir, North Carolina passed away on Friday, January 23, 2026.

Jamie was born on October 29, 1974 in Burke County, North Carolina to James and Barbara Beard.

He is preceded in death by his high school sweetheart, Angela "Beth" Beard.

Those left to cherish his memory include his daughters, Madison Bolick (Austin), Caitlin Phillips (Shawn), Lani Wright (Jacob), and Lorelai Beard; mother and father, James and Barbara Beard; brothers, Gary Beard (Becky), Charles Beard (Susie), Kenneth Beard, Neal Gragg (Amy), and Chad Gragg (Allison); as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and other loved ones.

Jamie was an excellent hunter and machine operator. He worked for Gragg Nursery for many years. Jamie loved his work, and he excelled at it. He was very well known in the Collettsville Community. Everywhere he went, he had a huge smile on his face and something kind to say. Jamie was an amazing father and well loved. As much as others loved him, he loved them back even more. He touched many lives. Jamie was also an avid arrowhead collector. His collection numbered over 1,500.

A memorial service to honor the life of Jamie Beard will be held at Setzer's Gap Church on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 2:00PM with Reverend Ken Byerly officiating.

There will be no visitation before the service, but the family invites everyone to come to the church fellowship hall after the service for refreshments.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society in Jamie's name.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.greer-mcelveenfuneralhome.com.

Greer-McElveen Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family.