Accident, Maryland - After a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, Franklin Beck Sherrard, age 31, passed away surrounded by the love of family and friends. Though his time with us was far too short, his life was filled with warmth, generosity and kindness that touched everyone who knew him. Many described him as simply the kindest person they had ever met.

Beck had a deep appreciation for the simple joys in life — especially good food. An avid baker and cook, he was always eager to try new recipes or perfect old favorites, and the kitchen was often filled with both laughter and the comforting aroma of something delicious. He was known for his barbecuing skills, bread making, and chicken wing feasts for friends. He had that special knack for cooking without a recipe and shared many delicious meals, served with flair on the gazebo. He believed that food was best enjoyed in the company of family and friends.

Beck worked at Brenda's Pizzeria since age 14. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Brenda McDonald and the entire team whose friendship, encouragement and unwavering support meant so much to him. He also worked at Mon General Hospital in the emergency department, where his coworkers stated, "He was loved in every room he entered."

Beck was a graduate of Frostburg State University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in biology — fitting for someone who felt most at home in nature. He loved all things outdoors, from working on projects around the farm to simply enjoying the quiet sounds of nature, including the familiar chorus of frogs at the pond that always made him smile. Beck also had a natural talent for building and creating. He especially loved woodworking and took great pride in working on a log cabin project — a labor of love that he continued even through his chemotherapy treatments, a true reflection of his determination and spirit.

A sports enthusiast, he participated in baseball, basketball and soccer at Northern High School and was recruited and played soccer at Potomac State College. Beck loved to be on a team. His family would like to thank the many coaches and teammates he had over the years; they played an integral part in molding the man he became. Beck rarely missed a chance to cheer for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pirates. Game days were a special time for him, filled with excitement, loyalty, Terrible Towels and the hope of a great season. He also had a deep love for baseball history and enjoyed building a treasured collection of baseball cards.

Beck shared a deep and devoted love with his wife, Jessica Thayer, whom he married on Dec. 12, 2025. Together they created a happy little family with their beloved pets, cat Harvey and pup Finn, who brought pure joy on a daily basis. Throughout Beck's illness, Jess was his unwavering source of strength — an absolute rock during every step of his medical journey and the reason he continued to face his battle with courage and determination. Beck was also deeply loved by Jess's family. He was a cherished son-in-law to Ed and Kendra Thayer, brother-in-law to Madison, and grandson-in-law to Dale and Donna Wagner.

Beck shared his life with his loving family who will carry his memory forward: his parents, Steve and Ann Sherrard, who raised him with the kindness and strength he shared so freely with others; his brother, Sam Sherrard and wife Lindsey; his sister, Abby Butler and husband Trevor, along with his beloved niece Aubrey; and his twin brother, Lake Sherrard and girlfriend Sierra. Lake and Beck shared the kind of twin-brother relationship that's equal parts friendship, rivalry and unshakable loyalty. He was also dearly loved by his grandmother, Helen Carroll, who provided love, good food and guidance during his childhood.

Waiting to welcome him are those who went before him: his grandfather, Fred "Beck" Carroll, whose name he proudly carried; and his grandparents, Jim and Lois Sherrard, whose love for good food and fellowship helped shape the man he became.

Beck was fortunate to be surrounded by a tight-knit circle of loyal friends who stood beside him with love, laughter and strength throughout his battle. Their presence brought him comfort and joy when he needed it most. He was blessed to receive encouragement from Levi's Pennies from Heaven and heartwarming care from the staff at the WVU Cancer Institute at Garrett Regional Medical Center.

At the young age of 31, he handled his cruel disease with grace, bravery and remarkably good humor. Above all, Beck will be remembered for his generous heart, his quiet strength, his smile and his witty one-liners. As one of his closest friends shared, "Beck made everyone feel like they were his favorite person." It is a sentiment that perfectly captures the warmth, sincerity and kindness he carried with him throughout his life and will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.

The family is deeply grateful to Cindy's Fund, whose generosity helped ease the burden of medical expenses and emotional burden during an incredibly difficult time. Memorial donations may be directed to Cindy's Fund, P.O. Box 182, Oakland, MD 21550.

A gathering for the celebration of Beck's life is planned for March 29, 2026, from 2 to 5 p.m. at Ace's Restaurant at Deep Creek Lake.

Newman Funeral Homes, P.A., 179 Miller St., Grantsville, MD, and Newman Cremation Services LLC, 1100 Memorial Drive, Oakland, MD 21550, is assisting the family with cremation arrangements.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.newmanfuneralhomes.com.