JACKSONVILLE  -  Colonel Jennings Bryan Beavers II (JB), 77, of Jacksonville, passed away Sunday, June 2, 2024 at his home.  Graveside funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, June 10, 2024 at Coastal Carolina State Veterans Cemetery.  A Celebration of Life will follow at the Heritage Square Club House, 2004 Colony Plaza in Jacksonville, NC.

He was born on November 16, 1946, in Cameron, Missouri to Corinne and Jennings B. Beavers. JB graduated from Cameron High School and was an All-Conference football player in 1964. He attended Northwest Missouri State University where he earned his bachelor's degree in history and political science while also playing on the football team.

While in college, JB married his high school sweetheart and love of his life, Valera Coffman.  After graduation in 1968, he received his commission as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps. Over his 31 years of military service, some of his career highlights include: consecutive tours as a Platoon Commander in the Republic of Vietnam; Executive Officer of Recruiting Station Indianapolis, IN; Infantry Officer Advance Course; TOW Missile Instructor Course; Airborne Course, Fort Benning, GA; Marine Corps Command and Staff College; Commanding Officer of Recruiting Station New York; Commanding Officer of 2nd Landing Support Battalion, 2nd Force Service Support Group (FSSG); Naval War College Strategic Studies Group Fellow; Commanding Officer of 8th Marines Regiment; and Chief of Staff 2nd FSSG.   Following his military career, he worked for Coastal Carolina Community College and Marine Corps Community Services as the Director of Base Education.  He loved playing golf with his friends, maintaining a beautiful lawn, and spending time with his "girls".

JB was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Jane Brumley.  He is survived by his loving wife and best friend of over 60 years, Valera Beavers of Jacksonville, NC, loyal canine companion, Bailey, and two daughters: Lisa Beavers and boyfriend Mike Myers of Jacksonville; and, Lori Barnes, husband Bobby, and two grandchildren, Cole and Kaylee of Wilmington, NC; sister, Jeanne Hoffman; amazing home health care providers, as well as numerous family members, and close friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to:  Lejeune Scholarship Foundation in honor of Col JB Beavers, Lejeune High School, 835 Stone Street, Camp Lejeune, NC 28546, Liberty HomeCare & Hospice Services, 2334 South 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403, or Onslow County Animal Shelter, 244 Georgetown Rd, Jacksonville, NC 28540.