Robert (Bob) Earl Beard, 68, of Needham, Indiana passed away June 21, 2020.  He was born January 31, 1952 in Franklin to John and Marjorie Beard.  He was a graduate of Whiteland Community High School and the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy.

Robert spent most of his career in law enforcement.  He was with the New Whiteland Police Department for 5 years and the Johnson's County Sheriff's Department for 17 years.  Before retiring from the Sheriff's Department in 2004, he spent time as a jail deputy, road deputy, investigator, SWAT team member, training officer, and firearms instructor.  He would then go on to work for Ameribridge and Kroger.

Outside of work, Robert enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, watching them play sports, watching the History and Discovery channels, and meeting with former classmates at their monthly gatherings.

Robert is survived by his daughter, Jessica (Beard) Sullivan; son-in-law, Steve Sullivan; grandchildren, Kiley and Garrett Sullivan; brothers, David Beard and James (Brenda) Beard; sister-in-law, Barbara Beard; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Robert was preceded in death by his brother, Carl Beard; sister-in-law, Kathy Beard; and nephew, Don Beard.

Family will receive friends Thursday, June 25 from 4:00pm - 8:00pm at Forest Lawn Funeral Home, 1977 S. State Road 135, Greenwood, IN  46143.  Funeral service will be Friday, June 26 at 11:00am, also at Forest Lawn Funeral Home.