Black Family Genealogy & History
Society
P. O. Box 90683
Phoenix, Arizona 85066-0683
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Where did your ancestors come from?
Before each monthly meeting, a Beginning Genealogy class is held from 11:15 to 12 noon. Guests are always welcome!
In Memoriam
June 22, 1924 - December 19, 2009
Herbert "Herb" Winston Beckford was born 22 June 1924 In New
York City. His parents were Herbert and Mabel Beckford. In his
youth, he participated in track and field events, running the 440-yard dash
in less than 50 seconds on several occasions.
In September 1941, Herb joined the U.S. Navy, remaining on active duty through June 1947.
Upon leaving the military, Herb found work as an insurance claims adjuster. Eventually he became a route salesman and distributor. His business acumen enabled him to open two sales companies of his own--Kamerle Distributors and Beck & Lou Distributors.
Throughout his life, Herb was an enthusiastic sports fan and sports journalist. He helped to organize one of the first women's professional bowling tournaments during the early 1970s. He wrote a number of freelance articles which were picked up by several New York sports publications. In addition, he enjoyed photography and developing his own black-and-white prints.
After a visit to Arizona, Herb fell in love with its climate, friendly people and leisurely lifestyle. He retired in 1994 and moved to Mesa, where he married Henrietta in June of that year. A keen bridge player, he was a member of the American contract Bridge League. He also served for several years as treasurer of the Black Family Genealogy & History Society.
Herb died on Saturday, 19 December 2009, from complications following surgery. He was 85.
Fondly remembered by family and friends, Herb is survived by his wife Henrietta, his son Kenneth, his three daughters: Karen Boddie, Leigh Ashirifie, and Meredith Beckford, his sister Yvonne Davis, two grandchildren, a niece and a nephew. A memorial gathering was held 3 January 2010 at the Beckfords' home in Mesa, Arizona, and a private ceremony took place later in New York. Interment was in New York's Calverton National Cemetery.
In September 1941, Herb joined the U.S. Navy, remaining on active duty through June 1947.
Upon leaving the military, Herb found work as an insurance claims adjuster. Eventually he became a route salesman and distributor. His business acumen enabled him to open two sales companies of his own--Kamerle Distributors and Beck & Lou Distributors.
Throughout his life, Herb was an enthusiastic sports fan and sports journalist. He helped to organize one of the first women's professional bowling tournaments during the early 1970s. He wrote a number of freelance articles which were picked up by several New York sports publications. In addition, he enjoyed photography and developing his own black-and-white prints.
After a visit to Arizona, Herb fell in love with its climate, friendly people and leisurely lifestyle. He retired in 1994 and moved to Mesa, where he married Henrietta in June of that year. A keen bridge player, he was a member of the American contract Bridge League. He also served for several years as treasurer of the Black Family Genealogy & History Society.
Herb died on Saturday, 19 December 2009, from complications following surgery. He was 85.
Fondly remembered by family and friends, Herb is survived by his wife Henrietta, his son Kenneth, his three daughters: Karen Boddie, Leigh Ashirifie, and Meredith Beckford, his sister Yvonne Davis, two grandchildren, a niece and a nephew. A memorial gathering was held 3 January 2010 at the Beckfords' home in Mesa, Arizona, and a private ceremony took place later in New York. Interment was in New York's Calverton National Cemetery.