Obituaries

We grew up across the street from the Beardsleys' (and the Lockharts') and have known these families as parts of our own. His parents were my mentors of the Theatre which I still teach today. Paul and Bonnie are the role models that I try to emulate with Alice on our stages, shops and classrooms at North Lake College. Mark and I shared more than just Sherman, AC, Theatre... Mark joined me in Great Britain in 69 with the Winant and Clayton Volunteers. That experience opened our eyes to a greater world view. He and I share so much. A great friend that I miss now and am reminded of at those glimpses of joy we shared.

I was sadden to hear of Mark's passing! As a Theatre major at Austin College, I knew Mark, his brother Chris, and their parents, Bonnie and Dr. Paul Beardsley. I enjoyed seeing Mark at many of A.C.'s performances which were directed by Bonnie and Paul. He eventually directed UIL One Act Plays, where he and I would compete against one another! He always had a big smile on his face, and his theatre kids loved him! To have known him was a treat! He will be greatly missed.

Will miss you RIP and may God bless

My condolences to the family and friends of Mark. He was a constant in my life as a member of St Stephens, a family friend, and a member of Sherman's theater circle. He was a great friend and support to my mother in her latter years. Every Sunday, he would go to 8:00 church, then bring my mother the church program and a sweet, typed note with news of friends and his life. He always remembered important dates in her life with beautiful cards. He was a true gentle man. A true friend and a simply marvelous human being. May we all aspire to his example. Warmly, Jan Castleberry

I served with Mark on the board of the Sherman Ex-Student's Association in its early days, he was always a joy to be around. I was sorry when I learned of his passing, his sudden and unexpected death was something that none of us who knew him wanted to hear. Sincerely, David Hall

From Fall of '62 until early summer of '65 My student job at Austin College was secretary of the Speech and Drama Departments which consisted of Paul & Bonnie Beardsley, theatre techs Lee Murdy and Chuck Eisner (?), and myself. Mark the middle son who played sports was a red-head with an easy smile. He was in middle school or high school and was often at the theatre. Don't remember what year, but I believe I ordered the first corsage he gave a date. I always felt I was his big sister. Michael, the oldest, came down from Chicago on Spring to visit along with his wife and young sons for whom I provided sitter services.. Christopher, the youngest, was in pre school. There were times when class was held in the Beardsley's home and Bonnie would cook up a batch of wonderful Senate Bean Soup --which I dutifully stirred between Chris' bath and bedtime story upstairs. I moved to California right after graduation, but I did sometimes run into Paul as we both headed back to Texas for a visit. When he passed I flew home and my mother and I attended the services. Mark knew everyone there and took the lead with introductions, bringing water to his mother, etc. Both Michael and Christopher had mental health problems and Bonnie grieved deeply for both of them as well as Paul for the rest of her life. Mark remained devoted to his mother and seemed to accept his "duty" as the good son easily.We tried to touch base when I was in Sherman for various activities. Last year 2018 we kept missing each other. He did share with me once he had always wanted to go into the priesthood, but it was never to be. However, he ministered to all he knew with that engaging smile, little courtesies, and an understanding, loving heart. Those of us who knew the Beardsley family were and continue to be most blessed. Mark lived a good life and is now home.

I am deeply saddened by Mark's passing. Mark was a teammate of mine at Austin College in the late 1960's and has been a cherished friend for many years. I always looked forward to seeing Mark at Austin College events. The world was a better place with Mark in it and he will be dearly missed.

I was so sorry to hear of the passing of my friend, Mark. I remember our junior high and high school years and all the things Mark accomplished. He was a great athlete, I thought he was outstanding as a basketball player in junior high then he was the starting center on the football team in high school. I remember also his ability at public speaking. Mark won an award in the 9th grade for a speech he gave. Men in the community who heard Mark and others speak voted Mark's speech the best. He gave that speech in front of the entire student body at Dillingham. Mark was a leader in our class, he was president of the Key Club and was voted Who's Who I believe all three years in high school. I know he has written articles for the Sherman Democrat that were well received. I remember talking to Mark not too long ago after his mother passed away and I was also glad to see him at our 50th high school reunion. I am grateful for Mark's life and for his friendship. My prayers go out for all his family and friends. Bob Rutherford

Mark was always a great friend with a heart for God and a faithful spirit. Linda Lapsley McGonnell

Farewell to a dear friend and a good man. Your classmate, Steve Abb

After teaching with Mark at Gunter HS, I enjoyed our infrequent visits at Home Hospice events and Sherman Community Plays. I always read his HD articles! He is a light of what all people should be. He is a very kind and gentle man that will be missed.

Mark was a great, wonderful guy. His talent, caring, and concern for others were inspiring. In the many years I knew him, I never heard him speak badly of anyone. Mark was a true gentleman. It was my honor to know him, and the times I shared a stage with him, he was a pros pro. RIP, my dear friend.

I met Mark through the theatre. He was such a talented gentleman, always polite, self effacing, and with a huge heart. It was an honor to share the stage with Mark, and get to work with him. He was also a talented writer and musician, and dedicated to his church. We shared a love of the arts, and I will deeply miss his quiet, genuine caring and support especially of young performers. Rest easy, dear friend.

I am so sad to hear this news. Mark was a loyal, faithful and genuine man. He religiously visited my mom when she was sick. Always smiling with a sparkle in his eyes. Last time I saw him he insisted on buying me a St Stephens tee shirt. What a reunion it must have been in heaven. Rest In Peace Mark. A fine, fine man. Mare-Mare Garrard Wallace