Caesar Wallace Beckett, Sr. transitioned into eternal peace on February 17, 2026, in Ridgecrest, California.

C. Wallace Beckett, Sr., affectionately known as "Wally", was born on August 25, 1931, in New York, New York to the late James O. Beckett, Sr. and Fannie P. Davis. He was baptized at All Soul’s Catholic Church, located in New York City.

Wally was educated in the New York City Public School System. As a graduate of Textile High School, now known as Charles Evans Hughes High School, he excelled in academics and athletics. He continued his education at Saint Paul's College in Lawrenceville, Virginia, earning a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. He also joined Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. in 1952. Wally later received his Master's Degree in Electrical Engineering from UCLA.

He was employed as a Draftsman and Electrical Engineer for the New York City Transit System prior to retirement and relocation to China Lake, California in 1977. He then worked at the Naval Station for the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers. This gave Wally the opportunity to travel abroad as a Master Electrician. He often spoke fondly of his many accomplishments, such as building a military hospital in Saudi Arabia. Wally retired from the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers in 1996 and made California his second home.

During his time abroad he met his loving wife of forty years, Evelyn "Ivy" Beckett, who he affectionately called, “Dear". Together they designed and built their beautiful home from the ground up, in Inyokern, California. Wally was involved in several community organizations, including the Inyokern Senior Citizens Center, the Tennis Club of Ridgecrest, Rotary International Club, and the American Military Engineers. Wally was a devout Catholic, who served as a dedicated usher for more than 30 years at St. Ann’s Church in Ridgecrest.

He was an avid sportsman who enjoyed swimming, playing tennis, racquetball, water skiing, golf, chess, and bingo. He was never one to turn down a challenge; and was known for his quick wit and keen sense of humor that always kept everyone laughing. Family gatherings were by far one of his top priorities, as he cherished the camaraderie and time spent with his loved ones.

Wally was preceded in death by his uncles, Wainwright Beckett and Walter Roberts; his older brothers, James O. Beckett, Jr., and Thaddeus J. Beckett, Sr. (Delores); nephew, Thaddeus J. Beckett, Jr.; and former wives, Pereta Villanueva and Diane Clarke.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his devoted wife, Evelyn B. Beckett, as well as his children, Caesar W. Beckett, Jr. (Beverly), Paul A. Beckett (Robin), Belinda Beckett Edwards, and Shannika Beckett. His sisters, Marsha and Marion Beckett, his grandson, six granddaughters, seven great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, in-laws, and a host of other beloved family and friends, will continue his legacy of love.