Douglas Arthur Beardsley, of Johnson City, NY, passed away at Wilson Memorial Hospital after a brief illness on November 2, 2023.
He was born in East Rockaway, NY to Albert and Lillian Beardsley. Doug started piano lessons at the age of 4 and continued to play the piano and many other instruments as he grew up. Doug loved to entertain family and friends from an early age and went on to earn his master’s degree in music performance at Harpur College. Doug was best known as a jazz pianist. He spent his days as a private music teacher, starting out in the family home where the dining room was his studio. Doug later taught in a studio at McNeil Music in Vestal, NY. In the evenings, he would perform with numerous bands and musicians at various clubs, weddings or any other event he was asked to perform. Doug would always introduce the band and then he would introduce himself as, “yours truly, Doug Beardsley”. One of Doug’s greatest musical accomplishments was his completion of songs, inspired by the poetry of the Spoon River Anthology. Always working on his craft and searching for the perfect chord progression, Doug was working on changes right up to the day he was rushed to the hospital.
When he wasn’t performing or practicing piano, he was treasure hunting with Ellen. They would spend time going from antique store to antique store and many times found themselves going to various thrift stores as well. He had a passion for all things unique and began to collect and display his treasures. He was always excited to show his family the latest find.
Doug was predeceased by his parents Albert and Lillian Beardsley and two brothers: Bob and Jeff Beardsley.
He is survived by his wife Ellen Beardsley, sons Jason and Darren (LaVerna); grandchildren Kayla, Chelsea, Shelby, Brooke and Megan; Sister Jean (Richard) Sheridan and family and Sister Arlene (Spencer) Gould and family; Sister-in-law Kathy Odell and family; special cousins Peggy Zier and family and Alice and John Slocum, Lora Zier, and many other nieces, nephews, cousins from both sides of the family.
Doug was an Army veteran, having served from 1966-1968.
The family will receive family and friends at Allen Memorial Home, 511-513 East Main Street, Endicott, Wednesday, November 8th from 4-6 pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests going out with family and friends and enjoy some live music, preferably Jazz. This would be a wonderful way to honor Doug’s memory and his love for music.
Doug’s contribution to his community and his dedication to his craft will be remembered by all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.