Jonathan Lamont Beale Sr.
Published 3:35 pm Monday, January 20, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Jonathan Lamont Beale, Sr. on Monday, January 13, 2025. Born on May 17, 1973 to the late Harold Ellis Beale, Jr. and the late Jane Louise Beale, Jonathan was a man of many hats and talents, having served our country as a dedicated Navy veteran, committed his time as a volunteer firefighter, pursued his entrepreneurial dreams, and navigated the open roads as a truck driver.
Jonathan was educated through the Philadelphia Public Schools System, graduating from Southern High School. He earned Bachelor of Science degrees in General Education and Criminal Justice from Columbia College and a Master of Business Administration. A lifetime learner, he was pursuing a degree in History at the time of his death.
Jonathan was a passionate sports fan. During his youth, he was an avid basketball and baseball player and a dedicated Pittsburgh Steelers fan. He would often be seen wearing black, white, and gold, repping the Steeler Nation.
After graduating high school, Jonathan joined the United States Navy and retired after 20 years of service. During those 20 years, over eight years were served at sea. As a member of the Navy, he received numerous awards and commendations, including the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Navy Unit Commendation, Navy “E” Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, NATO Medal, and Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist.
After retiring, Jonathan made a home for himself and his family in Smithfield, VA. He committed his life to service. Even after retiring from the Navy, he continued to serve and protect in a volunteer capacity. He was an active member of the Rushmere Volunteer Fire Department, receiving the 2019 Firefighter of the Year award in recognition of his service. He also volunteered with the Windsor Rescue Squad in Isle of Wight County, VA, where he served as a past president.
Jonathan was not one to sit idly by. During his retirement, he took on another opportunity to serve, using his education and passion for entrepreneurship to become the owner-operator of JB Transportation, LLC travelling across the country. As an owner-operator, he also provided employment opportunities for those seeking a better future for themselves and their families.
A man of faith, Jonathan also served the Lord Jesus Christ. Jonathan was a faithful and devoted member and Deacon at Disciples Church of the LORD Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith in Norfolk, VA. His life was marked by his dedication to his family, his community, and his many pursuits. His deep faith in Jesus Christ provided him with strength and guidance.
Jonathan leaves to cherish his memories his faithful and devoted wife, Lakindra Shenay Bowden Beale; his sons, Elijah Beale (Smithfield, Virginia), Xavier Beale (Misawa, Japan), Jonathan Beale, Jr. (Germantown, Wisconsin), Julius Bell (Moosic, Pennsylvania), and Kamaury Butler (Newport News, Virginia); and daughters, Amiah Beale (Smithfield, Virginia), Aliesha Gatling Beale (Tampa, Florida), Chassity Beale (Tampa, Florida), and Amber Beale (Germantown, Wisconsin), his youngest sister Charlotte Beale, who he helped raise, and his parents-in-law, Elworth and Catherine Laverne Charity Bowden. He is also survived by six brothers, seven sisters, nephews, nieces, cousins, and a large extended family and friends.
Jonathan’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of his family and friends, who will forever cherish the moments they shared with him. He will be remembered for his bravery, his entrepreneurial spirit, and his deep love for his family. As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate the impactful and meaningful life he led. May his memory be a source of comfort and strength to all who knew him.