Grace, aged 24, tragically lost her life on the evening of June 18, 2025, in a three-vehicle collision on North Main Street in Goshen, Indiana.

What began as an ordinary drive ended in devastation when her car was struck by another vehicle that had lost control. Two other drivers involved were immediately transported to local hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries, but despite the swift efforts of first responders, Grace succumbed to her injuries at the scene.

Born and raised in Goshen, Grace was the treasured daughter of Michael and Elaine Beard. A graduate of Goshen High School’s Class of 2019, she went on to study early childhood education at Indiana University South Bend, where she discovered her passion for teaching and mentoring. After earning her degree, she returned home to work as a preschool teacher, dedicating her days to nurturing curiosity and confidence in her young students.

Grace’s friends remember her as a beacon of positivity and creativity. She had an uncanny ability to turn routine Tuesday mornings into memorable adventures—whether it was through a burst of color in her lesson plans, an impromptu dance in the hallway, or simply the way she lingered after class to lend an encouraging word. Outside the classroom, Grace loved photography, weekend hiking trips in the Elkhart County parks, and hosting cozy gatherings with her closest friends.

Above all, Grace was devoted to her family. She cherished Sunday dinners at her grandmother’s house, cheering on her little brother at soccer games, and road-tripping with her parents to visit relatives. She approached every relationship with genuine interest and unwavering loyalty, making each person feel heard and valued. Her untimely passing leaves a void in the lives of her loved ones, but her legacy lives on in the countless stories, laughter, and lessons she shared.

A memorial service to celebrate Grace’s life will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Goshen First United Methodist Church (421 W Plymouth Ave, Goshen, IN 46526), with visitation starting at 1:00 PM. The family invites all who knew and loved Grace to join in honoring her memory, sharing remembrances, and supporting one another through this time of grief. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Goshen Community Schools Early Learning Center, a cause Grace championed passionately.