James Lamar Beason
February 14, 1932 - July 11, 2019
Obituary
James Lamar Beason, 87 of Seattle, Washington passed away at his residence on July 11, 2019. He was born on February 14th, 1932 in Steele, Alabama, the son of Roy and Doris Beason. Jim grew up on Chandler Mountain in Steele and graduated from Ashville High School in 1949. He entered the Air Force in 1951 and served in the Korean War. Once back from the war he attended college at Gonzaga University in Spokane and graduated in 1959 with an Engineering degree.
While in Spokane, he met and married the love of his life, Kathryn Lois Carr. Shortly after graduating from college he was hired by Boeing Aerospace as an Engineer. Jim and Lois, together with their newborn son, Gregg, they moved to Seattle. In 1962 they added an additional son, James M. to their family.
Jim’s career at Boeing spanned over 35 years where he worked primarily in the Defense Department designing missiles, including the AGM-86C Cruise Missile.
Jim was a humble and kind man who always put others before himself. He enjoyed watching and coaching his kids in sports, traveling and spending time with family and friends. He served on boards and was always involved in the communities he lived in. His strongest bond of all was with his wife Lois throughout their almost 65 years of marriage.
Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Doris, his two brothers, Clifford & Jack and his sister, Grace. He is survived by his wife Kathryn Lois Beason, Sons, Gregg & James M Beason, Daughters in Law, Annie Beason (Gregg) & Debby Beason (James M). Three grandchildren, Brett, Bryce & Layne Beason (Gregg).
A celebration of Jim’s life will take place at Bonney Watson’s Washington Memorial Park and Mortuary. Jim will be laid to rest in the Veterans Garden with Military Honors.
With respect for Jim’s service to the military and passion for sports, in lieu of flowers the family has asked that donations be made in his honor to Vet Tix (www.vettix.org) – a wonderful organization that provides tickets to sporting events for veterans. Or please make a contribution to any organization that is important to you.
Jim was a great neighbor and a good friend. We will miss him very much. We feel so happy that Lois is still in the old neighborhood and Jim is at peace. Our hearts are with his family.
A great influence. So easy to talk to and always had a word of wisdom for us. Our thoughts and prayers are with our Seattle Beasons. Love you all!
Always loved and admired ‘Uncle Lamar’! I treasure the precious, sweet memories of Seattle Beason’s visits. Love to you all!
Jim was a good friend and co-worker. He was a southern gentleman – quiet but with a great sense of humor. We enjoyed socializing with Jim and Lois over the years. We will miss him. Our condolences go out to Lois and all of their family.
Having recently been notified of James’s passing, the membership of (ERS) Engineering Retirees Society wish to express their sympathy.