James E. Beatty, 89, Jasper

James E. Beatty, 89, of Jasper, entered into eternal rest on June 3rd, 2026, at Deaconess Memorial Medical Center. 

He was born in French Lick, Indiana, on December 27, 1936, to Andrew Thurman and Stella Blanche (Combs) Beatty.

James married Eva Zoe Runyon on August 11, 1956, and she preceded him in death on October 30, 2019. They shared 63 years of marriage and built a beautiful life centered around family and hard work.

He was also preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jack; and sisters, Bertha, Jean and Linda.

James was a 1955 graduate of French Lick High School and proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. He was Chief of Police in West Baden Springs, then Chief Deputy Sheriff in Orange County for two terms, and later sheriff for two terms. He worked various jobs after leaving the Sheriff’s Department.

In his younger years, he was a caddy at the Sheraton Hotel golf course.

James enjoyed fishing, boating, and watching basketball, especially the Boston Celtics. He made countless memories and lifelong friends along the way. Following retirement, one of his greatest joys was mowing his yard and sitting on the back porch with Eva, drinking coffee and listening to the birds.

James lived a life defined by being present, service and an unwavering commitment to those he loved. He was a devoted husband, father, and papaw; his family was his everything. He leaves behind a legacy not just of hard work, but of strength, laughter, faithfulness, and love.  A legacy that will continue on through the lives he touched.

James is survived by his son, Bryan Scott Beatty; daughter, Tanya Seybold (Larry); grandchildren, Shanna Robison Beatty (Chris), Bryan Sean Beatty and Eric Shane Beatty; great-grandchildren, Logan Tyler George (Kassie), Alyssa Breann Blackman (Johnny), Brydon Beatty and Emily Beatty; great-great-grandchildren, Lincoln James George and Brynnley Anne Blackman.

A Funeral Ceremony will be conducted by Pastor Craig Chestnut at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 11, 2026 at Brosmer-Kemple Funeral Home with burial to follow at Ames Chapel Cemetery.

Visitation for friends and family will be from noon until the time of service on Thursday, June 11, 2026 at the Brosmer-Kemple Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ames Chapel Cemetery, c/o Connie Kerby, 2225 N. County Road 575 W, West Baden Springs, IN 47469.

Arrangements are in the care of Brosmer-Kemple Funeral Home in French Lick, Indiana.

Condolences may be made on our website at www.brosmer-kemplefuneralhome.com.