James “Jim” E. McBeath, 84, of Washington, KS, died July 31, 2024, at Bryan Medical Center West Campus in Lincoln, NE.

A graveside service will be held at 3 p.m., August 16 at the Washington City Cemetery.

Jim was born in Wichita to Everett and Elizabeth (Woodburn) McBeath on July 21, 1940. He graduated from Wichita West High School and earned his bachelor’s degree from Wichita State University where he was a member of the ROTC.

Jim went to work for GE in Wichita after college. In 1969 the company transferred him to Overland Park. After that, he considered Overland Park home. During his employment with GE he was transferred to several locations before retiring from GE in Louisville, KY in 1995.

On September 16, 1960, he was united in marriage to Joyce Beem in Harper, KS. She preceded him in death on March 2, 2009. They were blessed with two daughters, Laura and Linda. 

Jim had an exceptional love for being outdoors, whether it be hunting, fishing, golfing, bird watching, feeding eagles, or working in a pasture clearing trees. 

He leaves a huge impact on this world as a husband, dad, companion, grandpa, uncle and mentor. For many years, he was a beloved coach for his daughter’s softball and basketball teams, where he exhibited kindness, patience, and encouragement for everyone. Someone they looked up to.

Family was a priority for Jim, and he embraced every opportunity to spend time with them no matter what the occasion. He will be greatly missed.

Preceding him in death were his parents; wife, Joyce; granddaughter, Samantha Eickmann; and brother, George McBeath.

Survivors include his daughters, Linda (Dana) Duckworth and Laura (Todd) Burt; companion, Jeanette Stamm; three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

A memorial fund is established to KSDS in Washington. Contributions may be sent in care of Ward Funeral Home, Washington, KS