David Beatty Heard Jr.

David Beatty Heard Jr., beloved father, brilliant engineer, and world traveler, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, December 22, 2024. David will be remembered for his selflessness; his commitment to community service; his passion for adventure and travel; his love of sailing and the ocean; and especially his dedication to family and friends.

David is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Heard of Wareham, MA. Five siblings also survive him: Joseph (Jay) Heard of Plymouth, MA, Elissa Riemers of Wareham, MA, Christina Sargo of Lakeville, MA, Michelle Dillon of Plymouth, MA, and Nathaniel Heard of Wareham, MA. He is further survived by three nieces, six nephews, and five grand nieces and nephews.

David was predeceased in death by his wife of 54 years, Jane Meyer Heard (d. 2022), and his parents David B. Heard (d. 1996) and Elizabeth Ann Heard (d. 2013).

David was born at the US Naval Hospital in Chelsea, MA in 1944. He spent his formative years in Newton, MA. The family spent summer retreats on Great Neck in Wareham, MA. He graduated from Newton North High School in 1962 and went on to earn a BS degree in mechanical engineering from Tufts University in 1966. David was a registered professional engineer with more than 40 years of experience in the design, construction, and operation of industrial projects; principally, nuclear power plants.

David joined the United States Marine Corps in 1966. He earned the rank of Sergeant before his honorable discharge from the Reserves in 1972. He received the National Defense Service Medal (NDSM) for honorable active service during the Vietnam War.

David began his career as a Mechanical Engineer with the Stone & Webster Engineering Company. Among his assignments, he served as a field engineer overseeing construction of the Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station. Upon its completion, he became employed by the Boston Edison Company (which is now part of Eversource Energy) at the Pilgrim Station until his retirement.

David’s warmth and unwavering commitment to service taught us all a valuable lesson: that the measure of a life well-lived is not in what we take, but rather, in what we give. And David gave generously - not just his time and resources but also his heart.

His community involvement began with a stint on the Plymouth Zoning Board of Appeals in the 1980’s, followed by service on Jordan Hospital’s Board of Directors from 1981 to 1999. During that time, the hospital underwent two major building expansion projects in which David was heavily involved. He was

appointed a Member of the Designer Selection Board for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts by Governor Michael Dukakis. David most recently served as Chair of the Capital Planning and Finance Committees for the Town of Wareham.

David will be remembered for his infectious spirit, his love of sailing, and the deep connections he forged with those around him. In his younger days, he was also an avid boater and water skier. David's legacy, as vast and enduring as the ocean itself, will live on in the hearts of his family and his great many friends.

Per his wishes, the family will spread David's ashes off the shores of Great Neck, a place that holds special significance for the Heards. It was here that countless memories were made, surrounded by loved ones, laughter, and the beauty of the ocean.

The family is planning a celebration of David’s life in the Spring. It will be an opportunity for relatives and friends to join in a toast to a life well lived; a time to share memories of a beloved father, brother, and friend.

Please mail condolences and shared memories to PO Box 88, Wareham, MA 02571. Arrangements by Chapman Funerals & Cremations – Wareham.