Our family history-loving, Diet Dr. Pepper-drinking, Tabernacle Choir-listening mother and grandmother, Beverly Sheldon Despain, passed away on March 9, 2021, just 27 days shy of her 89th birthday.
She was born April 5, 1932, the firstborn and only daughter of Arthur William Sheldon and Evelyn May Williams.
Being born during the Great Depression, Beverly was slated to be a fighter, and she proved to be one from her first breath to her final one. She was born with a congenital heart defect and was not expected to live. As a young child, she underwent the first heart surgery west of the Mississippi at LDS Hospital. Growing up with three brothers increased her fight and toughness and helped prepare her to face many trials in her lifetime.
Beverly married John David Carlson and was blessed with three children whom she adored: Jacque, Susan, and Steve. After she and John divorced, she married Bernell J. (B.J.) Despain on September 25, 1971, and he treated her like a queen. They were sealed in the Provo Temple. Her children loved B.J. as the dad he didn’t have to be but was. As a family, they spent countless weekends camping, fishing, and hunting, and they especially enjoyed being together in the Book Cliffs.
Life was never easy for Beverly, but instead of giving in, she dug in, and through her independent nature and hard work, she created a legacy of which her posterity is very proud. She served as Price City’s treasurer, she worked for Carbon Hospital’s payroll department, and she devoted 16 years to the medical billing service she started with her daughter, Jacque. She absolutely treasured those years working with Jacque. Beverly was meticulous and always found satisfaction in hard work, as was apparent by the beautiful yard and garden she maintained for as long as she was able.
As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Beverly made lasting friendships in each of her ward families and particularly at the Family History Center. She found great joy in serving and ministering.
Beverly was preceded in death by her parents; her three brothers, Bill, Delbert, and Bob; her daughter, Susan; her son-in-law, Richard; and her great-granddaughter, Kamdyn.
She is survived by her daughter, Jacque Guymon; her son, Steve (Diane) Carlson; her seven grandchildren, Kimberly, Cami, Becky, Chad, Eric, Cristen, and Callee; 24 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandsons.
The family would like to express sincere gratitude for Symbii Home Health and Hospice, especially Diane, Andrew, and our sweet angel, Bonnie Kirkwood.
Family and friends will celebrate Beverly’s life on Saturday, March 13th, at 10 A.M. at the Price Eleventh Ward chapel located at 300 W. 500 S. Family will receive guests an hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at Duchesne City Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Mitchell Funeral Home of Price where friends are always welcome and may share memories online at www.mitchellfuneralhome.net.