Obituary of David Albert Beardsley

David Beardsley, age 72, Videographer and Writer

David Beardsley died peacefully from brain cancer after a struggle marked by courage and grace.  A recent resident of Monroe Township, NJ, he had lived with his wife in Highland Park, NJ for the past 31 years. 

Born on November 30, 1946, David attended Rutgers University in New Brunswick NJ, where, after a hiatus for work experience, he completed a B.A. in English, followed by a Master’s degree in Communication at the New York Institute of Technology. He worked as a videographer and video producer for the Johnson and Johnson Company Ethicon and at Chenega Technologies, under contract with the Fort Monmouth Military Base. In addition to other free-lance work in the communications field, David was the founder of Producers Group in marketing communications and more recently BioFiles, producing audiovisual personal histories.

Throughout his adult life David's main pursuit was the study of philosophical traditions expressing a single truth, and applying the knowledge as a principle for daily living. His spirituality found nurturing at the School of Practical Philosophy in New York where he was a student and leader for many years. He focused on living his life in service to Truth, Light, Love, and Good, and less to the material rewards and struggles of the world. But he loved and cared about his fellow beings, and he did appreciate and enjoy the bounty and beauty of life on earth. 

David's drive to creativity was life-long.  He authored two screenplays, yet to be published, and more recently wrote and self-published ten books, including the Ideal in the West, exploring the philosophy of Idealism from pre-Plato to Emerson, and  The Journey Back to Where You Are, a treatment of the Odyssey as a spiritual quest. He presented lectures on Idealism.  He wrote and directed a video documentary on the life and spirituality of Ralph Waldo Emerson.  He also created drawings, paintings, videos of distinction, and many beautiful photographs.  His love of beauty in all its forms was contagious, often opening the eyes and ears of others.

David was loved for his wit, intelligence, honesty, kindness, and generosity of spirit. To Leah, his wife of 46 years, he was an easy companion, a spiritual adviser and a best friend. They shared a life of fun, travel, nature, work, family, friends, and a peaceful home. From awkward youth to older age, together they explored music, art, and culture like two awe-struck children, amazed and inspired by what was revealed.

David was born on November 30, 1946 in Lower Alloways Creek, NJ to the late James Lynn Beardsley and the late Mildred Blaue Beardsley, in whose loving home he was raised. He is survived by his wife Leah Beardsley (Somerfield), three brothers: Joseph, Daniel and James, and one sister Beverly, as well as many nieces, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

There will be a memorial gathering at the Boylan Funeral Home in New Brunswick, NJ on Friday, September 6 from 6:00-8:00PM.  A funeral service will be held at the Reformed Church of Highland Park, NJ on Saturday, September 7 at 2:00PM.

David will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and all who were close to him. When signing his e-mails, David wrote, “We are all in Love the way we are all in air.  Don't forget to breathe.”