Kenneth Earl Beard, Jr.

Kenneth Earl Beard, Jr., 69, of Paxtang, passed away unexpectedly at his home on September 8, 2025. Born on February 5, 1956 in Harrisburg, he was the child of the late Kenneth Earl Beard, Sr., and Virginia Sheaff Beard Panza.

Ken dedicated his life to public service starting as an Eagle Scout. A life-long member of Paxtang Fire Company, he served as deputy fire chief from 1982–1984 and as fire chief from 1984–1992. His professional career spanned decades with the Swatara Township Police Department, where he rose to the rank of sergeant. He also served with the Crisis Response Team (CRT) and was a founding member of the Dauphin County Accident Reconstruction Team. Following his retirement from Swatara Township, Ken continued his service as chief of police and borough manager for Paxtang Borough from 2005 until 2015.

Beyond his professional roles, Ken was an active member of The Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd and was deeply committed to the Masonic order, where he was a 33rd degree Mason in the Scottish Rite, past commander & chief of the Scottish Rite, past district deputy of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, member of the Blue Lodge #464 as well as numerous other masonic organizations. His devotion to the fraternity was a defining part of his life.

Ken was also an avid Penn State football fan. Some of his happiest memories were spending time with his family driving the jammed packed car to Beaver Stadium — though his joy “often” came with frustration over James Franklin’s play calling.

Ken is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Sylvia; his daughters, Jill Helsel Gingrich (Crawford) of Mechanicsburg and Andrea Beard Azzalina (Michael) of Hummelstown; and his beloved four-legged companion, Snickers. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by an infant brother, William.

A Viewing will be held from 4:30 PM-7:00 PM on Thursday, September 11, 2025 in Wiedeman Funeral Home, 357 S Harrisburg Street, Oberlin, PA 17113 with a Masonic Service taking place at 6:30 PM. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, September 12, 2025 in Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Good Shepard, 3700 Rutherford Street, Harrisburg, PA 17111, with Rev. Kathleen J. Baker, STM officiating. Burial will follow at Paxtang Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Children’s Dyslexia Centers of Central PA at 2701 North Third Street, Harrisburg, PA 17110 and/or The Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd at the address above.