Thomas Seymour Beardsley, 77, of Ojai, California, passed away, Wednesday, September 20, 2017.  Thomas was born on June 28, 1940 in Oxnard, California and has been a resident of Ventura County for the majority of his life.  

Tom graduated from New Mexico Military Institute ranking Regimental Commander and graduated from Arizona State University with a BA Degree in Business.  After a career as an insurance agent, Tom took over the family business “Beardsley & Son” a fertilizer dealer, founded by his father in 1935.  Tom was dedicated to the community, offering his time to the Oxnard Chamber of Commerce and became a respected member of the Agricultural community for 40 years serving on several committees including the Western Plant Health Association and California Department Fertilizer Association Inspection Advisory Board.  Tom often spoke publicly educating others of the importance of agriculture, traveling to college campuses inspiring the next generation to appreciate farming.     

Tom enjoyed traveling, was an avid body surfer for 25 years competing in World Championships, golfing in many charity golf tournaments and enjoyed spending time with lifelong friends and family.

Tom is survived by his wife Paulette Beardsley, his daughter Melinda Beardsley Wiseman, stepdaughter Stephanie Callahan, stepson William Reiman, stepson James Reiman, grandchildren, step-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.  He is preceded in death by his father, Robert Lee, mother Georgina, brother Robert and sister Maureen.  Tom touched many lives with his charismatic personality and generous kind heart.  He will be missed dearly.   

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 am Saturday, October 7, 2017.  Chapel of the Islands – Conejo Mountain Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 2052 Howard Road, Camarillo CA  93012.  In honor of Tom and in lieu of flowers, the Beardsley family requests a charitable contribution to SEEAG.  Donations will be used to promote agricultural education and can be made online at www.SEEAg.org.   

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