Eugene C. Beacham

Eugene Consolvo Beacham, 88, of Lynn Drive in Portsmouth passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 30, 2015. He was born on January 24, 1927 in Norfolk, VA and was the son of Willis E. and Elvina Beacham. He is survived by Edna M. Beacham, beloved wife of 68 years, Dr. Cindy V. Beacham, daughter and Dr. Neal Shambaugh, son-in-law. He is also survived by his brother, Vernon V. Beacham, and many other loving family members who were always an important part of his life. Serving others and paving the way for future generations were passions he continually expressed throughout his personal and professional life. His commitment to others was strong, and his accomplishments were many: He was a 64 year member and Past Master of Washington Lafayette Lodge No. 176 A.F. & A.M. A 50-year Majority Member of the Order of DeMolay, Recipient of the “DeMolay Legion of Honor and Past Dean of the Tidewater Preceptory. Past Patron of Tidal Wave Chapter–Order of the Eastern Star. Charter member and Treasurer Emeritus of Portsmouth Scottish Rite Bodies and a Treasurer and Financial Advisor for 24 years, Past Presiding Officer of the “Lodge of Perfection”, Chapter of the Rose Croix, council of Kodosh” and the Consistory. For his work and devotion he was honored with the 33rd Degree, I.G.H. Past State President of the Scottish Rite Conference of Virginia. Past Associate Guardian of Bethel No. 5, International Order of Jobs Daughters. Member of Port Norfolk Royal Arch Chapter, Khedive Shrine Center, Portsmouth Shrine Club and Life Member of Taegue (Korea) Masonic Club. An active member of Port Norfolk Baptist Church for over 61 years. Ordained a Deacon in 1963 and served 5 years as Chairman of the Board of Deacons. Treasurer of the church since 1961. A 40-year member and Past President of Southside Lions Club and among other honors was the recipient of the “Melvin Jones Fellow” award. Served on the Portsmouth City Retirement Board. Member of the American Legion. A 50-year member and Past President of Portsmouth Executive Club. He served in the U. S. Army 1951–1953, a Korean Veteran. A member and Past President of the Seaboard Chapter Accountant Society of Virginia. Active State Board Member and Past State President of “The Accountants Society of Virginia”. An Accredited Tax Advisor, founder of the accounting firm E.C. Beacham and Associates. Co-Founder of Beacham’s Religious Books and Supplies, Inc. Gene Beacham served his family and community as a “bridge-builder” across his entire life. “…The builder lifted his old gray head. “Good friend, in the path I have come,” he said, “There followeth after me today A youth, whose feet must pass this way. This chasm, that has been naught to me, To that fair-haired youth may a pitfall be. He too must cross in the twilight dim; Good friend, I am building the bridge for him.” ~ Will Allen Dromgoole A service celebrating his life will be held at noon on Wednesday, September 2nd at Port Norfolk Baptist Church in Portsmouth. Donations may be made to Port Norfolk Baptist Church General Fund, 401 Broad St., Portsmouth, VA 23707.