James Beauchamp

James Riley Beauchamp, age 98, of Chiefland, Florida, peacefully entered his Heavenly home on July 3, 2026, in Chiefland. A lifelong resident of Levy County, James was born to Willie A. and Thelma Hiers Beauchamp and spent his life devoted to God, his family, and the land he loved. He was proudly known throughout the area as the last open-range cowboy in Levy County, a title that reflected both his heritage and the life he so dearly cherished.

James spent many years working as a road surveyor for the State of Florida while also farming and raising cattle. He worked cattle on Florida’s open range for his in-laws (Mr and Mrs Smith) and others until the state’s No Fence Law ended the open-range era in 1949. During those early years, he often spent weeks at a time away from home in cow camps, tending cattle with the dedication, determination, and grit that defined his generation.

Above all else, James was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather. His family was the greatest blessing of his life, and he treasured every moment spent with them. He was a faithful member of Chiefland Methodist Church.

James is survived by his loving wife of 19 years, Ramona S. Beauchamp; his grandsons, Jim (Randi) Beauchamp, Clint (Stacey) Beauchamp, both of Chiefland, Florida, and Jake (Tara) Beauchamp of Old Town, Florida; his extended family, Vadin (Tracy) Barber of Bronson, Florida, and Charmian (Melvin) Chambliss of Vicksburg, Mississippi; and his many beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchild. His family includes Tenlee (Thurman) Bailey, Mollee, Annabelle, Gracie, Grant, Brantley, Holden, Jaci, Veronica “Ronnie,” and his extended grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Kelby (Lyndsay), Ty (Emma), Micaela, Miranda, Bowen, Blakely, and Jhett. His family is the joy of his life and the legacy he cherished most.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie A. and Thelma Hiers Beauchamp; his beloved son, Jamie Beauchamp; his sister, Nadine Deas; his brother-in-law, Bruce Deas; and his first wife, Annie Gene Beauchamp.

James will be remembered for his quick wit, unwavering work ethic, deep love for his family, and steadfast commitment to his faith. His kindness and wisdom touched countless lives throughout Levy County. His legacy will live on in the generations of family he loved so dearly and in the memories of all who were blessed to know him.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Weems and Sons Funeral Home of Chiefland, Florida. Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 9, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 10, at 10:00 a.m. at Chiefland Methodist Church. Interment will follow at Chiefland City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers as James was an Altruist, please donate to the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews.