Chad Edward Beard

Chad Edward Beard, a cherished son, devoted father, and beloved friend, passed away on January 29, 2025, in Lafayette, Louisiana, at the age of 50. Born on December 24, 1974, in Opelousas, Louisiana, Chad's vibrant spirit and infectious laughter illuminated the lives of all who knew him. 

A Visitation will be held on Sunday, February 2, 2025, at Lafond-Ardoin Funeral Home of Opelousas from 4:00pm - 8:00pm. Visitation will resume on Monday, February 3, 2025, from 8:00am until 11:00am. The Funeral Service will begin in the funeral home at 11:00am with Father Henry Antony officiating. Burial will follow in the Beard Family Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Danton Beard, Ethen Breaux, Mark Bihm, Jonathon Beard, Jason Lamana, and Joey Fontenot. Honorary pallbearers will be Glenn Gambrell, Jeff Quebedeaux, Jacob Firmin, and Terry Mengarelli.

Chad was more than just a man. He was a father, a grandfather, a fiancé, a businessman, a hard worker, and the most down-to-earth person one could ever meet. He was genuine and kind. Chad's laugh was contagious, and his presence lit up any room he walked into. He never knew a stranger and never hesitated to help anyone in need. Chad's work ethic was unmatched. He built his business from the ground up, thriving and succeeding in the construction industry for over 20 years. Chad loved his fiancé, Tiffany (Tiff), for 14 years. The love he had for her cannot be put into words. He truly loved Tiff wholeheartedly. Chad found happiness within his children. Not a soul ever doubted the love Chad held for his children. They were his everything. He worked tirelessly to provide for his family, never once complaining, giving them everything they needed and more. His hands, worn from years of labor, were the hands that built his family’s dreams and future. Chad has seven special children who call him “Pop,” and everyone knew how proud of a grandfather he was. The love he had for his grandchildren was never doubted. They lit up every time they encountered their “Pop.” A few things he enjoyed were cooking and singing on his porch, spending countless hours on and off the baseball field with his youngest son, boiling crawfish, and riding ATVs. He was an outdoor enthusiast. Though the time has come to say goodbye, Chad lived a full and great life. He led by example, never questioning the love his family had for him. He was the true definition of a father, brother, friend, and spouse. 

Chad is survived by his fiancé, Tiffany Smith; his mother, Judy Beard; his sons, Danton Beard, Ethen Breaux, and Braylon Beard; his daughters, Gabrielle Buller and her husband Samuel Buller, Amelia Beard, Makali Beard, and Amelia Breaux; his seven grandchildren, Jack Buller, Loretta Buller, Wes Buller, Brooks Steib, Ryder Barker, Ellie Barker, and Holden Beard; his brother, Mark Bihm; and his sisters, Jacintha Stevens and Deneen Bihm.

He is preceded in death by his father, Lawrence Wilbur Beard, Jr.; his maternal and paternal grandparents; and his brothers, Larry Beard and Johnny Beard.

As we remember Chad Edward Beard, his legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those he touched, especially within his beloved family. The world is a little less bright without him, but the love he gave and the bonds he forged will remain forever etched in our hearts.

Family and friends are invited to sign and view the online guestbook at www.lafondardoin.com. 

Lafond-Ardoin Funeral Home of Opelousas, 2845 South Union Street, Opelousas, LA 70570, (337) 942-2638, has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.