Address
Locke on 4th
1519 W 4th St.
Waterloo, IA 50702
Celebrating the Life of Jong Nam “Lee” Beard
January 15, 1934 – January 21, 2026
Jong Nam “Lee” Beard, 92, of Waterloo, Iowa, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at Unity Point Hospice in Waterloo. In agreement with her wishes, cremation has taken place. The family will hold a private graveside service at a later date.
Lee was born on January 15, 1934, in Busan, Korea. She served as a nurse during the Korean War, which is where she met her husband, Duane Beard. They were united in marriage in Busan in 1955. In 1957, Lee made the courageous move to the United States with her husband, Duane, and her son, Mike.
Lee worked at Schoitz Memorial Hospital, where she dedicated many years of hard work. She then ended her career working in the catering business. After retiring, Lee became an avid gardener who took immense pride in her flowers and plants. She enjoyed cooking, especially Korean food for her family and friends. She also enjoyed her trips to the casino. But most of all, she cherished her time spent with family and friends.
At the time of her passing, Lee was a resident at LaPorte City Specialty Care. She was known for her kind heart and the many special friendships she formed there. She loved her daily visits from the two dogs, Mojo and Rizzo, and enjoyed spoiling them with treats.
Lee is survived by: daughters Connie Jensen and Brenda (Dave) McFarland; grandchildren Ben, Hillary (Clyde), Tajia, and Adriel; 7 beloved great-grandchildren; and 4 cherished great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Duane, her sons, Mike and John, her parents and her brother.
Lee’s life was defined by a kind and caring heart. She will be greatly missed by all those who had the privilege of knowing her. Lee left those she loved with a simple, touching request: “After I am gone, will you think about me once in a while?”
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Cedar Bend Humane Society in Lee’s memory.
Thought of her often. Loved working with her at Clabby’s. And growing up in the same neighborhood. She was so sweet to spend time with. So many great memories. So very sorry to hear that your mom has passed
Brenda, Connie and family, I’m so sorry to hear the loss of your mother. Lee was a special person who was loved by many, especially me. She always treated me like a son. She will be dearly missed.
First, my condolences to Connie and Brenda and your families, so sorry for your loss.
One of if not my mom’s best friend, I grew up visiting her home as a child, a tag along with my mom. I remember Lee always had a big smile and kindness in her voice when greeting me and how she treated me even at times when I didn’t deserve it :). That never changed up through high school and beyond.
As mentioned already, anyone who knew her was blessed with her kind heart, gentleness and sweet smile. May her influence and light continue to shine in the lives of those who were blessed to know her.
My heart breaks for you, Brenda and, Connie, and families. She was such a beautiful lady who treated me like I was one of her own I loved her for that.. She was the sweetest and kindest and funniest, beautiful soul, My sincere condolences to you all. Love hugs and prayers for comfort during this difficult time 🙏 love you guys. You’re in my thoughts and prayers..
My Deepest Sympathy. Thoughts & prayers 🙏
I worked with Lee 50 years ago at Conway. We gave each other pep talks when Del got on our nerves. Just a pure joy to be around. Later years I used to stop to visit her on Ridgeway when I was in town. Then, I came back and she wasn’t there any more.
Your mother was classy, caring, and dedicated. It was an honor to know her and work with her.
So sorry for the loss of your Mothr, Lee. I am Diane’s Cousin Larry Andreassen. When younger and in the area, my wife and I enjoyed visiting Duane and Lee. Our condolences for all. Love, Larry..
, Brenda and, Connie, I’m so sorry for your loss. Your Mom was a remarkable woman. May her memory always bring you both peace and warmth. Love always, Joyce and Lois
I’ve finally built up the courage to come here and say something, thank you grandma for loving us like your own. From our sick days to yours … from my bad days to my good days my bad decisions to my good ones, you never made me feel not welcome you’ve always accepted me for me I will hold on to that forever, the last thing you said to me was think about me once in a while.. but oh I just try not to Gma because when I do I feel a rush of sadness and it takes me to a place that’s hard to get out of. My favorite memories of you were held mostly in your blue condo, when I use to get sick and mom had to work she’d bring me to you and you’d nurse me back to health, made sure I had a 7 up and some of those ramen noodles you use to make with the eggs in them and we watched wheel of fortune until she got off and you’d send me out the door with a kiss on my forehead and tell me “ be good to you mother” in your voice lol what I would do to go back .. please come visit me sometimes I won’t be scared..