Kenneth “Kenny” Ray Beaird, 85, of Keokuk, IA passed away Sunday, June 9, 2024 at his home.
He was born December 4, 1938 in Keokuk, IA the son of Ernest and Eudora Malloy Beaird. Kenny graduated from Keokuk High School with the class of 1957. He attended Western Illinois University and the University of Virginia. He later graduated from the National FBI Academy in 1976 in Quantico, VA.
On June 30, 1957 Kenny was united in marriage to Sally Jennings in Keokuk. She survives.
Other survivors include three daughters, Terri Christenson of Independence, MO, Tammi Kircher (Dr. Edward) of Keokuk and Kathryn “Micki” Holterhaus (Scott) of Keokuk, one son, L. Douglas Beaird (Mary) of Burlington, IA, eight grandchildren, Molly Christenson, Anna Christenson, Megan Clatt (Adam), Dr. Kali Kircher Ruffcorn (Blake) of Keokuk, Hilary Beaird, Dilan Beaird (Jaci), Brooke Wagner (Ryan) and Dr. Bailie Bryant Kruse (Bill) and six great-grandchildren, Beau and Emma Wagner, Avery and Collins Clatt, Paytyn Ruffcorn and Hallie Ray Beaird. He is also survived by one brother-in-law, Terry Jennings of Unionville, IA and two nephews, one niece and two special friends, Dean Gaylord and Richard Zobel.
He was preceded in death by his parents, two sons-in-law, Scott Bryant and Mike Christenson, his brother, Freddy Beaird, his sister and brother-in-law, Barbara and Robert Swanson and one sister-in-law, Betty Jennings.
Kenny had been employed by the City of Keokuk as a police officer from 1963 until his retirement in 1994. Throughout his career, he demonstrated bravery, integrity and compassion which earned him the title of Major.
Kenny was of the Christian faith. He was a member of the Keokuk Lions Club for many years.
He was athletic and competitive and loved a good game of pickleball. He enjoyed spending time outdoors fishing, but most of all he treasured the time he spent with his family. After his retirement, Kenny and Sally enjoyed several years in Texas where many long lasting friendships were made.
A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m., Wednesday at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Reverend Bill Mitchell officiating. Burial will be in the Evangelical Cemetery in Donnellson, IA.
Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m., Tuesday, at the funeral home with family meeting with friends at that time.
Memorials made to the Keokuk Police Department K-9 Fund.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.c
