Longtime Franklin County resident Patricia 'Patty' Ann Beasley dies at 75

Beasley was known for her creativity, independence and adventurous spirit, and loved spending time outdoors with her family.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Patricia 'Patty' Ann Beasley, a 75-year-old resident of Franklin County, passed away on February 2, 2026, surrounded by her husband and daughters. Beasley was born in Chicago in 1950 and later moved to Ewing, where she met her husband, Monte Keith Beasley. The couple shared nearly 50 years together and had two daughters, Shannon and Darby. Beasley was known for her creativity, independence, and adventurous spirit, and loved spending time outdoors and traveling with her family.

Why it matters

Beasley's life story highlights the importance of family, adventure, and living simply. As a creative and independent woman, she served as an inspiration to her community, particularly her grandchildren. Her passing marks the end of an era for her loved ones, who will remember her for her humor, imagination, and love of the outdoors.

The details

Beasley was the youngest of three sisters and grew up in Ewing, where she attended Ewing Grade School and Benton High School. She met her husband, Monte, at Ewing Grade School, and the two married in 1976. Beasley was known for her mechanical skills and often repaired vehicles herself when they broke down. She and her husband lived simply and prided themselves on never living beyond their means. Beasley loved spending time outdoors and traveled extensively throughout the western United States with her husband, often living for months at a time in a slide-in camper. She also completed two seven-day canoe trips in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness with her daughter Darby, and explored Alaska with her daughter, daughter-in-law, and grandson.

  • Beasley was born on April 16, 1950, at Cook County Hospital in Chicago.
  • Beasley and her husband, Monte Keith Beasley, married on July 3, 1976, in Franklin County.
  • Beasley passed away on February 2, 2026, surrounded by her husband and daughters.

The players

Patricia 'Patty' Ann Beasley

A 75-year-old resident of Franklin County who was known for her creativity, independence, and adventurous spirit.

Monte Keith Beasley

Beasley's husband of nearly 50 years, whom she often referred to as her 'cowboy'.

Shannon Appleton

Beasley's daughter, who hiked challenging trails in Moab, Utah, with her mother.

Darby Beasley-Piatek

Beasley's daughter, who completed two seven-day canoe trips in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness with her mother, and explored Alaska with her.

Alexander Krause

Beasley's father.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

Beasley's life story serves as a testament to the importance of living simply, embracing adventure, and cherishing family. Her legacy will continue to inspire her loved ones and community, who will remember her for her creativity, independence, and love of the outdoors.