Beckwith, Harry Leland
Harry Leland Beckwith of Virginia Beach, VA passed away Easter Sunday, April 17, 2022, at the age of 89.
Harry was the son of the late Charles Allan and Ruth White Beckwith. Harry leaves behind his beloved wife of 36 years, Beverly Ann. Harry is survived by his four children and two step daughters: David Beckwith (Carole); John Beckwith (Melissa); Kendrick Beckwith (Lisa); Suzanne Schrag (Matt); Dana Hopkins Thorne (Thomas) and Jennifer Knickerbocker (Erin); his siblings Charlie Beckwith (Sibylle); Jim Beckwith (Judy) and Sally Novak; as well as, many grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Harry's strength of character and resilience were evident throughout his life. At the age of six, his grandfather and namesake, Harry White, made it possible to bring medicine from Germany that saved Harry's life yet left him totally deaf at the age of 6. Harry never
let his deafness define him, nor did he ever see it as a disability. Harry learned to lip read and not only survive, but thrive in a hearing world. Numerous people of character and compassion came into his life at key periods to provide stepping stones for which he was forever grateful. These people reinforced Harry's belief in a predetermined pattern of existence.
Harry grew up in New York and New Jersey and graduated with a BA from Alfred University and achieved a Masters in Architecture from the University of Pennsylvania. Harry had two rewarding careers as an
Architect and Teacher. He practiced architecture in Philadelphia, PA and Hartford, CT for 20 years before moving on to teach drafting and design at the American School for the Deaf in West Hartford, CT for 23 years. During his spare time he enjoyed cycling both for pleasure and competition. Harry retired in 2000 and
spent his retirement enjoying traveling with Beverly to Europe, the Caribbean, Mexico, Cape Cod, Bar Harbor and the Outer Banks. In 2008 they relocated to the warmer climate of Virginia Beach, VA and enjoyed watching the ocean and spending time with their families.
Harry was a true gentleman of high character and great moral integrity. He was a wonderful husband, father, stepfather, brother, grandfather, uncle and friend. His legacy will live on in all the lives he has touched.
Please sign guestbook at courant.com/obituaries