"From the very beginning, Beverly was given many obstacles that would have deterred most people from ever having passion about life. Beverly always had the best of hearts and every moment she lived in this world, she made it a better place for all those around her.
She was diagnosed at birth with cerebral palsy. But, Beverly would not have limitations placed upon her. She thirsted for knowledge and cherished all the new experiences that the world had to offer. At some point she couldn't attend school with other children so she was homeschooled by Mrs. Abbot, a woman whom Beverly looked forward to seeing. She loved these lessons that they had because it meant the opportunity to learn and Beverly loved to learn.
Beverly had a long list of challenges, as we all know, but she wouldn't allow them to conquer her, rather she conquered them. One of these challenges was the ability to communicate. Beverly had difficulty writing; therefore, she typed and once again found another way to communicate.
I learned from my mother that even though Beverly couldn't drive a car, she had taught herself to ride a bike so that she could go to collect paper for her paper rolling job, as well as to better explore her world.
I remember my first impression of Beverly vividly, a smiling caring loving example of what I knew one day I wanted to be. Beverly didn't give handshakes, she gave hugs and kisses. I treasure every moment that I spent with her as I am sure all of you do as well.
I remember when I was a kid, I was hyper and I always seemed to be in the way. But Beverly always seemed to make me feel like I wasn't a hinderance even though I probably didn't help her with her jigsaw puzzles as much as she helped me. She could put those puzzles together faster than anyone I have ever met.
Her mother Emma Williams, a constant companion and friend, loved Beverly and gave her an example to model her life around. Although Emma was her mother, their relationship was more like friends. They taught each other about life and shared many adventures together with her sister Joyce. Imagine this: the three ladies: Beverly, Joyce and Emma tearing around Owatonna and the rest of the world in their Chevy Caprice, with plenty to see and do.
I would love to tell you some of these stories but I really can't. Some of these events included the New York World's Fair, many graduations of family and friends, family reunions, leaf looking (which was one of Beverly's favorite things to do) and more than we have time to list here today.
The strongest of all in Beverly's life was her faith in God. A walk they undoubtedly took together, hand in hand. And I am sure they are walking hand in hand now. She was very active in the church and attended regularly until physically unable; in my opinion her faith never wavered.
I want to say on the behalf of my family and all of Beverly's friends that we love you, we miss you and you will always be right here in our hearts and prayers where you've always been."