Sherryl Lynn Beard

Sherryl Lynn Beard, 65, of Rio, died at 10 p.m. Monday, March 7, 2016 at home with her family by her side.   Sherryl was born August 12, 1950 in Galesburg, the daughter of Cecil E. and Dorothy M. Moody Davis.  Sherryl married David E. Peterson on April 25, 1971.  They had one daughter, who survives of Monmouth, Heather (Andrew) O’Daniel.  She later married Juhani Kuusisto on June 14, 1989.  He preceded her in death on April 27, 1999.  Sherryl later married Gerald D. Beard on October 6, 2008 at their home in rural Rio.  Sherryl is survived by her husband, Gerald of Rio; one daughter,; one step daughter, Kimberly Kuusisto of Aurora, CO; two step sons, Ryan (Audrey) Beard of Vancouver, WA and Jonathon (Anna) Beard of Federal Way, WA; two brothers, Cecil “Buddy” Davis of Galesburg and Kenny (Gail) Davis of DePere, WI; and a sister in law, Sherry Davis of Galesburg.  Sherryl is also survived by five grandchildren, Paxton, Emmarie, Harper, Chloe, and Jakob; and 16 nieces and nephews.  Sherryl was also preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Sgt First Class Rodney Davis; and one nephew, Owen Siefker.   Sherryl worked as a legal secretary at Rehn and Skinner Attorneys At Law in Galesburg.  She was also a very active 10 year member of Elks Lodge 894 Galesburg, and served as Secretary.  Sherryl also was the IEA (Illinois Elks Association) West District Vice President as well as being on the board of directors.  She also enjoyed playing bingo.  Sherryl will be remembered as an amazing cook and one of the most caring and selfless people one could ever meet.   Private family graveside services will be at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens, Galesburg.  A celebration of life will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 12, 2016 at the Elks Lodge in Galesburg.  Memorials may be made to the Elks National Foundation.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson-Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg.