Joan Beckham Obituary, Death – Edith Joan Enlow Beckham of Irmo, SC, peacefully departed on Wednesday, December 13, 2023. Born in Columbia, SC, in 1937 to Mildred and Lee Vance Enlow, Joan is survived by her siblings: Leon (Cindy) Enlow, Larry (Betty) Enlow, Eleanor E. Ford, Juanita (Wayne) Duvall, Richard Enlow, Laney Enlow, Harriett (John) Berzins, Janice (Robert) Padowicz, Gwen Gantt, Alice (Bernie) Clegg, Laura (Michael) Decker, along with 29 nieces and nephews. A dear friend and co-worker, Elizabeth McCormick, also mourns her loss.
Joan is preceded in death by her brother Dan Enlow, sister Judy (Brian) Knotts, as well as her parents, spouse Claude C. “Sonny” Beckham, and cherished companion of 16 years, Thomas M. Maxwell. Joan commenced her career at Grice’s Market, showcasing expertise in crafting fruit baskets for the family-owned business. She later retired from Southern Bell Telephone Company upon marrying Claude C. “Sonny” Beckham (26 years). Together, they established Beckham’s Barn Rock and Gem Shop in Irmo, SC, where Joan not only thrived as a small business owner but also demonstrated exceptional skill as a Jewelry Maker and Lapidary. Her vast knowledge in this field was invaluable.
Joan’s life was enriched by extensive travel across multiple continents and the United States. At home, she achieved the status of a Master Gardener, passionately tending to her beautiful yard and sharing her plant interests with others. Joan’s generous and loving nature extended to her many canine and feline companions. Funeral services will take place on Monday, December 18th, at St. David Lutheran Church in West Columbia, SC, at 3 p.m. A brief family visitation and viewing will precede the ceremony in the church commons area at 2 p.m. Interment will follow the service in the church cemetery.
