William Dorsey Beam

Dr. William Dorsey Beam

Our much loved Bill, Dad, Pap and G.P. slept peacefully into his “long nap”on August 15, 2026 at his home, surrounded by his deeply loving family and his furry snack buddy, Annabel. William Dorsey Beam was born November 9, 1938 in Glendale, WV to the late William H. And Mary Ellen Beam. He had one sibling, Ellen Beam Rudy (deceased). As a youngster, living on a farm, raising cattle and horses was a beginning step toward the chosen profession for his life. 

Bill’s education began in Moundsville elementary school, and middle schooling was at Linsly Military Institute in Wheeling, WV. He graduated from Moundsville High School, class of 1956. After high school, Ohio State University was his choice, earning a BS degree in Agriculture. Continuing onward, Bill graduated from the College of Veterinary Medicine in June,1965 having bestowed on him the title of DVM. While attending OSU, he was a member of the OSU football team and became a letterman under the coaching of Woody Hayes. As a member of the OSU football team, Bill celebrated with his teammates the ’57 National Collegiate Football Championship.

Dr. Beam settled in the Greensburg area with his family and began his career of Veterinary Medicine at the Animal Hospital of Greensburg. Being called to many farms in the area, he initially pursued a large animal practice. He later transitioned into a full time small animal practice. In 1984 he fulfilled his dream of having a log cabin built and opened its doors as “Dr. Beam’s Animal Hospital”. After practicing Veterinary Medicine for 53 years, he retired in 2018. 

Bill had a dry and unique wit. Those who got to know him were able to see the “Teddy Bear” side of him from the straightforward and gruff side they thought they knew. His kindness and helpfulness was well appreciated, and his generosity touched many, especially his family, each and every one. He was deeply loved and respected by his 3 children and spouses, 8 grandchildren, and 7 greats. A started project was never left unfinished. Traveling stateside and abroad, Bill enjoyed experiencing many different countries and cultures. Football, sports in general, and NASCAR were TV favorites. Antiquing and attending farm auctions delighted him.

Surviving are his loving wife of 69 years, Carole E. Beam, his children; Dr. Wm Randy Beam (Gail), Brian E. Beam (Marge), Jill E. Lint (Dr. Edward), his grandchildren; Dr. Kristin J. Griffiths (Philip), Zachary W. Beam (Crystal), Dr. Gabrielle R. Beam, Dr. Wm Alexander Beam, Christian Garrett Beam, Jared E. Lint (Leeann), Erin E. Parisi (Christopher), Elicia E. Ansick (Douglas), his great grandchildren; Leyna J. Lint, Levi J. Lint, Weston D. Ansick, Isla R. Ansick, Blair N. Griffiths, Ora Belle Griffiths and Fitzgerald E. Beam. Also recognizing Susan Vacy Lyle, our AFS daughter and nieces and nephews who enjoyed being in their uncle's presence. 

Bill desired there be no public visitation. The family will have a private Celebration of Life. If one desires, memorial donations can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.