Statement on the Passing of Stephen Beardsley
Beardsley served as County Prosecutor and Democratic Secretary of State Candidate
NEW ALBANY, March 3, 2021 – Floyd County Democratic Party Chair Adam Dickey made the following statement in regard to the passing of former Floyd County Prosecutor and Secretary of State candidate Stephen Beardsley:
“It is with great sadness that I was informed of the passing of former Floyd County Prosecutor and 1982 Indiana Democratic Secretary of State candidate Stephen Beardsley. A loyal Democrat, dutiful attorney, and committed community member, Stephen worked to make New Albany and Floyd County a better place.”
“Know affectionately for his flamboyant and charismatic personality, Stephen’s impact often resonated throughout the community. Elected Prosecutor in 1978, he used his gift for courtroom presentation to bring justice against all manner of criminal offenders. In 1982, he began a campaign to unseat then U.S. Senator Richard Lugar, but switched to the Indiana Secretary of State race. As the Democratic Secretary of State candidate, he worked tirelessly traveling to all 92 counties in Indiana. While falling short in the election, the experience deepened his love for our state and for serving others. Years after, local and statewide Democrats alike would recall fond memories of his campaign and often recount stories that included his distinctive campaign symbol – his dapper fedora.”
“As an attorney in private practice, Stephen was a fixture at the Floyd County Courthouse and took great pride in helping individuals turn their life around. Having started his legal career with the Legal Aid Society in Louisville, he believed that everyone before the court deserved a vigorous defense and clients would often commend him for his savvy legal work.”
“Stephen had a fondness for New Albany’s downtown and historic buildings and was a founder in the Main Street Preservation Association. He eventually owned and restored several historic structures in the area, including the Lapping Home, the Depauw-Barth House, and Hannegan Hall. This later building, prominently located at the corner of Pearl and E. Market Street, served as both his office and residence. His efforts restoring such spaces also directly aided the local Democratic Party, which for several years operated out of one of his buildings on Pearl Street from 2005 until 2013.”
“Our party extends our heartfelt sympathy to Stephen’s wife, Rebecca, and his large family including four children, Elisabeth, Elisha, Hannegan, and Scarlett; two stepdaughters, Angela and Andrea; as well as his many grandchildren and extended family members during this most difficult time.”
Visitation will take place at E.M. Coots’ Sons Funeral Home, 120 W. Maple Street in Jeffersonville, IN, on March 5th between 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. and a Memorial Service will be held there on Saturday, March 6th at 10:00 a.m.
###