James "Jim" Franklin Beal

James Franklin Beal, 82, passed away April 3, 2026, in Opelika, AL.  He was born January 27, 1944, in Rochester, New York to Dorothy and Morris Beal.  Predeceased by his parents; wife, Janice Beal, brother, David.  Survivors include brothers Kenneth (Carole) and Stephen (Beth), and Fran (sister-in-law).  There are also seven stepchildren, grandchildren, great grandchildren, cousins, nephews and nieces.

 He served in the United States Army where he served in the 1st Battalion 18th Infantry, 1st Infantry Division Vietnam. He was awarded two bronze stars. After being discharged, he attended and graduated from Arizona State University. He went on to work for Tanner Construction Company (TPAC) where he retired.  He met his wife, Janice, and they settled in Tempe, AZ where he served as the president of his HOA. They were married for 37 years before her death.

He was referred to as “Poppy” by his grandchildren and great grandchildren.  Anyone who knew him would say that he was a man “with a heart of gold”.  He would do anything for anyone and always thought of others.  He was very active in his church and had a strong work ethic personally and professionally.

A memorial service and burial will be held in June. His wife, Janice Beal, will be interred with him at The National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at 10:00 AM MNT.