Jacksonville Community Mourns the Loss of a Resilient Golfer and Family Matriarch
In the heart of Jacksonville, there’s a sense of reflection and solemnity as friends and family remember the remarkable life of Gladys Audra Beacham-Huber, who passed away on November 23, 2024, at the age of 97. A longtime resident of Florida, Gladys dedicated her life to family, work, and her one true passion: golf.
A Life Filled with Challenges and Triumphs
Born on August 12, 1927, in Miami, Florida, Gladys was raised by her beloved aunt and uncle, the late Mr. and Mrs. Ross M. Long. From an early age, she exhibited a strong spirit, overcoming the challenges of life as a single mother after losing her husband, Wallace C. Beacham, at the young age of 39.
Gladys navigated her way through various careers including banking, working as a reservation agent with Pan American Airways, and later moving into real estate with Swenson Realty at the prestigious Ocean Reef Club. Her fierce drive and work ethic were amazing traits that endeared her to colleagues and friends alike.
The Power of Resilience
After remarrying Andrew Huber, a successful engineer, she expanded her horizons and embraced a luxurious life filled with travel and social events. Whether it was yachting trips or fishing excursions, her life was vibrant. After Andrew’s passing and surviving ovarian cancer, her devotion shifted back to family, focusing on creating cherished memories with her children and grandchildren.
A Golfer’s Legacy
For many in Jacksonville, Gladys is remembered not only as a dedicated mother and grandmother but also as a passionate golfer. Her love for the sport was palpable. Spending countless weekends on the greens, Gladys not only honed her skills but shared her passion with her family. Golf wasn’t merely a sport for her; it was a way to bond, laugh, and create lasting memories that her family treasures to this day.
Gladys was known for her infectious enthusiasm on the course, whether she was competing in well-loved tournaments or simply enjoying sunny afternoons with friends. Her vibrancy and energy inspired not just her family but those who shared the green with her. The Jacksonville golf community is surely feeling the loss of such a spirited player.
Family, Faith, and Community
Gladys is survived by her sons, William C. Beacham and Michael G. Beacham, both of whom have taken their mother’s legacy of resilience and passion for life into their own families. Gladys’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who all gathered to share in her love for golf, carry on her spirit in every swing they take.
Her dedication extended beyond family as she also actively participated in her faith, often attending services at Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo, Florida. Sundays were not just for worship but a day to enjoy the sport she loved so much.
A Bright Future For Golf in Her Honor
In remembrance of Gladys and her contributions to family and community, a private memorial service will take place at a date still to be determined. Meanwhile, her legacy will shine through the lives of those she touched, both on and off the golf course.
For anyone wishing to honor her memory, contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society, a cause particularly dear to her after her battle with cancer. Together, we can ensure that her spirit continues to inspire generations in Jacksonville and beyond.
In these tough times, the golfing community of Jacksonville stands as one, remembering a woman who embodied grace and strength, and a love for the game that will resonate for years to come.
