Beverly L. Gayhardt, Girl Scouts executive

Beverly Lanning Gayhardt, 93, a retired Girl Scouts executive, died Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024, of heart failure at Maryland Masonic Homes, Cockeysville, Md.

She leaves behind her son, Patrick; her daughter-in-law, Laura Kay; her son-in-law, Lance Roth; and her two grandchildren, Jameson Elizabeth Roth and Paris Lanning Roth-Kapci. She is preceded in death by her daughter, Anne Irene Gayhardt Roth; and her husband, James “Jim” George Gayhardt.

Born and raised in San Diego, Calif., during the Great Depression and World War II, she attended Herbert Hoover High School and San Diego State University, majoring in theater arts and sociology. After graduation, Beverly enlisted in U.S Army Special Services at Fort Lewis, Wash., before taking a position in Poitiers, France. At age 24, Beverly embarked on several journeys that would connect throughout her life: in 1956, she met Jim, who became her loving and encouraging partner of 59 years; she developed a commitment to service of country and community; and she learned a love of travel, as each adventure brought new friends, knowledge and memories that inspired her for the rest of her life. Beverly and Jim retired to Lewes, living there for 15-plus years. 

Beverly served as executive director of The Baltimore Council of Camp Fire Girls and held multiple positions with Girl Scouts of USA across two decades of service, including as associate director of field services and as executive director for Girl Scouts of Central Maryland. She traveled to Heidelberg, Germany, to serve as executive director of North Atlantic Girl Scouts supporting U.S. military dependents stationed in Europe from 1979-81 and again from 1991-95. She was awarded the Distinguished Civilian Service Medal by the Department of Defense in 1981 and again in 1995 for her service supporting active-duty military personnel and their families stationed in Europe.

Beverly leaves behind a legacy of remaining true to oneself, tireless pursuit of creating a better world in every phase of life, and empowering others to reach their full potential. She is lovingly celebrated and remembered by many extended family, friends, colleagues, neighbors, and former Girl Scouts at home and abroad.