Helen Beardsley 1928 – 2025

Helen, but everyone called her Nana, mother of Bette Bowen, is once again dancing with her husband.

Mom was born and raised in Wisconsin, where she and Bob raised their nine children on a farm. It was an honor that I’ll miss to have her stay on and off with my family here in Boca, soaking up the sun until the bugs found her, reading books and watching Heartland. Enjoying her grand and great grandbabies was one of her favorite things.

She’s the progenitor of nine children (eight surviving), 23 grandchildren (22 surviving), 39 great-grandchildren (three of which are arriving soon) and one great-great-grandchild.

She truly was a Renaissance woman, having many talents and areas of knowledge. The Women’s lib movement was passé to her because she did everything Daddy did … and then some.

Mom made friends everywhere she went and softened even the crustiest hearts with her engaging smile and quick wit. We kept red wine for dinner and the occasional Yuengling to have with pizza. Thank you, Todd, for never mottling her brandy old fashioned.

The Lord’s unique sunsets always brought praise and childlike wonder to her lips.

To her “gentlemen friends,” thank you for making her evenings out something she looked forward to.

Thank you to the Boca Grande Fire and EMS for caring for her so gently and respectfully.

Everyone at HCA Englewood was absolutely a blessing, medically spot on, and compassionate.

Also, Tidewell Hospice House in Port Charlotte was a tranquil place for Mom’s final hours.

We invite anyone to celebrate her amazing and long-lived life on July 1, 11 a.m. at Strickland Funeral Home, Crystal River.

God is Good. 

Jan. 5, 1928 – June 19, 2025