Beverly Sue Martin Tapper, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully in her home in Camden, Arkansas, on December 24, 2025, following a courageous and extended battle with dementia. She was 83 years old. Born on October 10, 1942, in Baraboo, Wisconsin, to Thomas E. and Relda Sue Strickland Martin, Beverly's early years were shaped by the warmth of family. They soon settled in Conroe, Texas, where Beverly spent most of her formative years.

Beverly's life was marked by a strong sense of duty and independence. After proudly serving several years in the U.S. Navy, she brought her discipline and dedication to the civilian workforce. She began her career in Houston, working for a lawyer, where her sharp mind and organizational skills shone. In 1982, seeking new horizons, she relocated to Hampton, Arkansas. There, she briefly contributed her talents to the Cabun Rural Health Services clinic before transitioning to roles in the defense industry. She joined General Dynamics and later advanced to a position as a purchasing agent at Lockheed Martin.  Over the course of 20 dedicated years, Beverly played a vital role in supporting precision manufacturing operations that contributed to national defense. She retired in 2002.

Following the passing of her husband, Lee Roy Wesley Tapper, in 2006, Beverly found solace and joy in pursuing her passions. An enthusiastic genealogist, she spent countless hours tracing her family roots, uncovering stories of ancestors that connected generations and brought her immense satisfaction. Each spring and summer, she looked forward to visiting her sister Judy's home in Willis, Texas, where she enjoyed the rhythms of rural life—tending gardens, preserving the harvest through canning, and sharing laughter with family. Beverly also nurtured her creative side by painting with a cherished group of ladies in Texas, producing artworks that captured the beauty of nature and the warmth of everyday moments.

A true adventurer at heart, Beverly embraced travel with open arms. She delighted in exploring new destinations, and trying new activities, always approaching life with curiosity and a spirited sense of wonder.

Beverly was preceded in death by her husband, Lee Roy Wesley Tapper, her parents, Thomas E. Martin and Relda Sue Boyd; and her brother, Wayne Martin.

She leaves behind a legacy of love cherished by her children: Jill Brian of Camden; Laura Tapper of Dallas, Texas; and Marisa Garrett (Cameron Gallagher) of Camden. Her three grandchildren—Morgan Brian-York (Jeremy) of Bryant, Arkansas; Kaitlyn Garrett of Camden; and Preston Garrett (Lexie DeHart) of Conway, Arkansas—brought her endless pride and joy. She was also blessed with four great-grandchildren: Eli, Noah, and Elena York of Bryant, Arkansas; and Kyren Garrett of Camden, Arkansas. Additionally, she is survived by her dear sister, Judy Diggs of Willis, Texas, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will forever hold her memory close.

Also, a special thank you to the ladies of Gentiva Hospice who helped care for Beverly over the last 2 years.

The family will hold a private ceremony at a later date to celebrate her life. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Beverly's memory may be made to Arkansas Alzheimer's Association, www.Alzark.org.