Edwin Lee Beasley, a retired U.S. Navy Commander, devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, educator, and community leader, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on July 17, 1935, he lived a life of service, faith, and dedication to both his country and his community.

A native of Pennsylvania, after graduating high school at St. James High School, Edwin graduated from Villanova University. He was commissioned an Ensign at Officers’ Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island in 1957. He served as Damage Control Assistant and Engineering Officer onboard USS HYADES (AF-57) until mid-1959, then as Engineering Officer on the USS TUTUILA (ARG–4) from 1959 to 1960. From 1960 through 1962, he served as a Missile Division Officer onboard USS CANBEREA (CAG-2). He was assigned to shore duty with the Defense Intelligence Agency from 1963 to mid-1965 and then served as Engineering Officer aboard the USS WALDRON (DD-699). After nine months as a student at the Defense Intelligence School, Commander Beasley served for two years as Head, Acoustic Division, Naval Scientific Technical Intelligence Center near Washington, D.C. Following that opportunity, he reported to the USS TOLOVANA in October 1970 as Executive Officer and deployed in that ship, providing logistic service to combat units in Vietnam. In 1972, he returned to the Defense Intelligence School in Washington, D.C where he served as an instructor as well as Chairman of the Postgraduate Intelligence course. Commander Beasley then reported to the USS DIXIE (AD14) as Executive Officer in June 1974.

While serving in the Navy, Edwin earned a Master’s degree in Russian History from George Mason University. During Edwin’s Naval career he was a pioneer in the development of underwater sound detection technology, collaborating with experts from Carnegie Hall and early computer scientists to advance data processing methods. During his tenure at the Defense Intelligence Agency, he made farsighted assessments—predicting both OPEC's use of oil as a geopolitical weapon and the eventual collapse of the Soviet Union. Though initially dismissed, his insights later proved remarkably accurate. Ed was known for his deeply analytical mind and ability to synthesize complex information into clear, forward-looking conclusions.

After retiring as a Commander in 1979, Edwin moved to Palm Bay, Florida, where he continued his commitment to public service. He worked for the City of Palm Bay’s Department of Leisure Services and later became an educator, teaching

history and government at both the high school and college levels. Additionally, he shared his expertise in technology by teaching software classes with Microage and Computer Classroom.

A man of deep faith, Edwin was actively involved in the Catholic Church – specifically the deaf ministries -- offering support and guidance to those in need. He was a proud member of the Lions Club and was always dedicated to serving his community. He was also active in his love for music as evidenced by his performances with the Melbourne Municipal Band, where he brought joy to many by playing the clarinet and soprano saxophone. Edwin was also active in the Grand Isle neighborhood, where he and Diana lived and made many friends with whom they enjoyed traveling. Even after retiring from teaching, he continued to share his passion for education by teaching classes for the residents of Grand Isle.

Edwin was preceded in death by his parents, Sara and Marion Beasley; his brothers, George Beasley and Phil Beasley; and his beloved daughter, Caryl Lee Ciaravino. He is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Diana Beasley; his children, Sara Beasley, Ronald Beasley, and Jacqueline Roberts; his grandchildren, Vincenzo James Ciaravino, Steven Roberts (Bridget), Corey Roberts (Jessica), Kyle Roberts, Audrey Russo, Casey Beasley and Chase Pereboom; and his great-grandchildren, Michael Roberts, Lillian Roberts and Emma Russo. He is also survived by his brother, James Beasley (Marilyn).

A service to celebrate Edwin’s life will be held at St. John’s the Evangelist Catholic Church in Viera on Tuesday, April 1, 2025. The viewing will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. He will be laid to rest at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his honor to the St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church.

Edwin’s legacy is one of honor, service, love, and faith. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. May he rest in eternal peace, knowing his life was well-lived and his impact everlasting.