Beverley Brakefield

Beverley Carr Brakefield passed away peacefully on January 23, 2025, in Corpus Christi, Texas, just weeks shy of her 99th birthday. Born on March 1, 1926, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, to Frank and Mildred Carr, Beverley lived a long, vibrant life filled with love, service, and dedication to her family and community.

In 1980, Beverley was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Donald Brakefield, with whom she shared many happy years before his passing. Despite his early departure, Beverley exemplified resilience and grace, carrying on their shared legacy for the next 45 years. She was also preceded in death by her siblings, Elmer Carr, Arlene Visscher, and Fred Carr.

Beverley is survived by her two daughters, Debbie Ellwood (Dan) of Corpus Christi, Texas and Judy Kamis (Jerry) of Grand Rapids, Michigan. She was a proud and loving grandmother to her three grandchildren, Rebecca Ellwood Bass (Brett) of Dallas, Texas, Thomas Ellwood (Jessica) of Spring, Texas and Kevin Kamis, of Grand Rapids, MI. Also bringing her great joy were her five great grandchildren: Jaxon Ellwood, Knox Ellwood, Harper Bass, Dylan Ellwood and Benjamin Bass. She held a special place in her heart for her many nieces and nephews, who fondly called her "Aunt B".

Beverley's life was a testament to community spirit and entrepreneurship. She and her husband owned and operated two restaurants in Kalamazoo - Don's Grill and The Burger Bowl - before buying a farm in Vicksburg, Michigan, where they raised their daughters. On that very farm, Beverley launched her own business in 1963, Bev's Korn Krib, which she had for 14 years. Known as "The Popcorn Lady", Beverley brought joy to countless customers with her famous popcorn and caramel corn. Her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to her craft made her a beloved figure in the community, with many driving miles just to visit her popcorn wagon.

Beyond her business ventures, Beverley gave generously of her time and talents. She was a proud member of the Order of Eastern Star in Vicksburg and volunteered with the Red Cross at the Vicksburg Hospital. Her kindness extended to her kitchen, where she baked countless treats to brighten the days of friends and family alike. Her love of baking has become a cherished tradition passed down to her daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

At age 54, Beverley took up the game of golf and it became a source of solace and renewal after the loss of her husband. Golf quickly became her favorite pastime, and she played countless rounds in the greater Kalamazoo area with friends Jean Fogelson, Barb Hollenbeck, Mary Kinney and Gwen Walker. Among her golfing achievements, Beverley celebrated a memorable Hole-in-One, a testament to her perseverance and joy for the game. When she moved to Texas in 2000, she continued to play the game and joined the Ladies Golf Associations at both Oso Golf Course and Gabe Lozano Golf Center. She would load up her golf clubs in her red Mustang convertible and head for the links! There were many rounds of golf played with her friends Valda Davis, Gloria Haddad and Marcille Scott.

Beverley will forever be remembered as a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend to many. Her love, generosity, and feisty spirit have left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Beverley will be laid to rest on July 26, 2025, at the Vicksburg Cemetery alongside her beloved husband Don.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Grand Rapids Women's Golf Association. Your support will honor her memory by helping other widowed women find healing and joy through the game she loved. Donations can be sent to GRWGA, 7254 Barn Owl Lane, Allendale, MI 49401 or made online at grwga.com.