Jacksonville Memorializes a Legend: Remembering the Life of Gladys Audra Beacham-Huber
Oh, Jacksonville! It’s a city that’s known for its vibrant golf community, beautiful beaches, and rich history. But today, it takes a moment to pause and remember one of our gentle souls who recently shuffled off this mortal coil. Gladys Audra Beacham-Huber, who passed away on November 23, 2024, at the grand age of 97, wasn’t just a beloved figure; she was a force of nature!
A Life of Resilience and Adventure
Born on August 12, 1927, in Miami, Florida, Gladys was raised by her late brother and sister-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Ross M. Long. From a young age, she demonstrated a fierce determination and a remarkable work ethic that would see her through life’s ups and downs. Despite the heartbreak of becoming a single mother after the loss of her husband, Wallace C. Beacham, Gladys faced her fate with courage, proving herself in various roles, from banking to real estate.
Her career even took flight at Pan American Airways, where she served as a reservation agent. But it was in the world of real estate, particularly at the Ocean Reef Club, where she truly shined!
New Chapters and Lasting Love
Gladys later remarried Andrew Huber, a charismatic engineer and real estate investor. They shared a luxurious lifestyle filled with yachting, fishing, and travels across the globe. Picture them at the Ocean Reef Club, mingling with friends, and relishing life to the fullest. It was these moments that formed the backdrop of their fairytale romance.
But life threw some challenges her way, as it does to all of us. After Andrew’s passing and surviving a fierce battle with ovarian cancer, Gladys chose to focus on family, pouring her love into her children and grandchildren. Her family became her passion!
A Legacy of Family and Faith
Gladys is survived by her devoted son, William C. Beacham and partner Stanley Sylvain, along with son Michael G. Beacham and his significant other Debbie Mantel. Her legacy further extends through her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who carry shards of her spirit within them. In a city like Jacksonville where golf is more than a game, it’s a way of life, we can only imagine how much she cherished those precious family outings spent on the green, sharing laughs and love over a game of golf.
Celebrating Life, Love, and Golf
Pursuing her fervor for golf was another way Gladys connected with her loved ones. Throughout her life, she devoted her Sundays worshiping with her community at the Ocean Reef Club, often fusing her love for golf with her faith. As avid golfers in Jacksonville, we know how cherished those moments on the golf course can be—swinging clubs and cheering on loved ones, a perfect blend of camaraderie and competition!
A Private Farewell and Contributions
A private memorial service is planned to honor Gladys and her remarkable journey. In a showing of love and respect, the family encourages contributions to the American Cancer Society in her memory, celebrating her strength and resilience one last time.
Final Thoughts
As we remember Gladys, let’s carry forward her spirit of generosity, resilience, and love for family, community, and of course, golf! So next time you’re out on the course in Jacksonville, take a moment to share a memory of Gladys, savor the game, and embrace what she stood for—a life fully lived, surrounded by love, laughter, and good friends.
Here’s to you, Gladys! May you rest in peace and always be remembered in our hearts and on our greens.
