Our condolences to the Beard family and the Greensboro Fire Department of North Carolina. Captain William Beard Jr., 56, a 30 year veteran of the Greensboro Fire Department, died Wednesday April 10, 2002. William was participating in a live burn training exercise when he collapsed due to an apparent heart attack.

     Interstate traffic paused in tribute Thursday afternoon as firefighters from most every department in Guilford and Alamance counties escorted William home from the State Medical examiners office in Chapel Hill. His body was carried by a Greensboro apparatus with a black bow. Those not in the procession manned bridges and overpasses in uniform waving American flags as the trucks came through, showing their support.

     Visitation for William will be held Friday April 12, 2002 6-9PM at Hayworth Miller Funeral Home in Kernersville, North Carolina. A memorial funeral will be held Saturday, April 13, 2002 2PM at First Baptist Church in Jamestown, North Carolina. A memorial fund has been established and donations can be made to: