J. Irvin Beatley

James Irvin “Irv” Beatley passed away peacefully Monday, April 1, 2024, in the loving care of Lutheran Hospice. A resident of Kempton of Charleston, SC, Irv passed while in the presence of his adoring wife, after a long struggle with the complications of a stroke that occurred some five years earlier. He is survived by his wife of over forty years, Sandra Davis Beatley; daughters, Debbie Beatley Inlow (Brand), Margie Beatley Whitley (Kenneth); stepchildren, Thomas Joseph Keller III, Sandra Arlene “Muffy” Cochran (Michael); grandchildren, Samantha Inlow Burns, Jessie Inlow Hughes (Justin), Julia Whitley, Joshua Whitley, Myles Joseph Keller (Brandy) and five great-grandchildren.

Irv, having just celebrated his 96th Birthday, was born in the Northern Neck of Virginia and is preceded in death by his parents, William Lloyd Beatley and Minnie Hamock Beatley; his brothers, W. Alton Beatley and Dr. Robert E. Beatley, Sr. and two sisters, Betty Beatley Kidd and Ivy Hazelgrove.

Irv grew up living in a rural community but had great hopes and dreams of life beyond the farm. He attended Richmond Professional Institute (Virginia Commonwealth University) studying art and graphic design with the Class of 1947. Following his formal education, Irv served in the National Guard and worked in the field of graphic design, corporate communications and business development as a savvy entrepreneur.

Irv started his business solo, renting a table in the office of another business. He quickly outgrew that office, as his business flourished. Through the years Irv partnered with William “Bill” Gravitt and formed Beatley Gravitt Corporate Communications, which secured many Fortune 500 clients, won numerous industry awards and earned a fine reputation in the business community. Irv served in various leadership roles across business, civic and philanthropic organizations, was a generous donor in his community and a founding member of Willow Oaks Country Club in Richmond, VA.

Irv’s accomplishments and influence touched many lives over his 96 years. He will be fondly remembered by those who knew him as a fine example of a Southern gentleman, a sharp-dressed man, with an infectious smile and passion for life.

A Cryptside Funeral Service will be held 1:00 PM, Wednesday April 17, 2024, at Magnolia Cemetery Mausoleum, Charleston. The family will receive friends between 3:00 and 5:00 PM, following the service, at The Carolina Yacht Club, 50 East Bay Street, Charleston, SC 29401.

Arrangements by James A. McAlister, Inc. (843) 766-1365.