Richard James Beemster

Mr. Richard James Beemster, 85, of Columbus, MS., formerly of Chicago, Ill. passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family, Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at his residence. A memorial service is planned for Thursday, July 17, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Cockrell Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Justin Grifford officiating. Visitation will be thirty minutes prior to the service. Cockrell Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with arrangements.

Richard J. Beemster was born in Blue Island, Illinois on July 22, 1939, to the late James Peter and Irene Mayton Beemster. Richard was a high school graduate of St. Willow Brook High school in Chicago, Ill. He received some college education before entering the U.S. Marines. He was so proud to be a marine and made sure he told everyone. Richard worked at LE Meyers Electrical and Utilities as a computer operations manager. He retired after forty years of service. He was dedicated to his work, as he worked

seven days a week. He was known by his family as being a family man. His deep love for family was evident in everything he did, especially the love for his wife of sixty- three years, Annie and being a loving father, grandfather, and great grandfather. Richard had many friends that he loved dearly, and he never met a stranger. Richard enjoyed fishing, bowling, and golfing in his spare time. Richard is preceded by his parents, son, Rick Beemster and daughter, Pamela Curatolo.

Richard is survived by his wife, Annie Beemster, son Doug Beemster (Tonya), his six grandchildren, Samantha Jo, Joshua A (Jerrica), Zackery L, Cady (Nathan), Tony (Sydney) and Heather C. Eight great grandchildren: Sophia Grace, Emmy Rose, Ty, Kali, Kenzie, Mia, and Trey.