Beverley Lynn Appleton

The final curtain call has come for actor, producer, director and most of all the artist known as Beverley Lynn Appleton, better known as "Bev." Bev was born in Harrisonburg, VA. Once he caught the acting bug in his early twenties, he made it his lifelong pursuit. For the next 50 years Bev would have a career in the theater that endured until the time of his passing when at 78, he was playing multiple parts in a new powerful musical called Gabriel, at Hanover Tavern in Ashland. That career included work on the stage, the silver screen, television, and voice-over. His favorite acting musical role was John Adams in 1776, and his favorite non-musical role was Ellard in The Foreigner, a part written by his dear friend Larry Shue based on a character Bev invented. Bev was owner and artistic director for the Haymarket Theater in Mechanicsville, VA, bringing ground-breaking plays and musicals that opened the door of opportunity for hundreds of actors in the area. Just weeks prior to his passing, the Haymarket Theater was honored at the 50th anniversary of its opening. For almost 30 years he was also a leader, mentor, and friend to hundreds of young students around the world with the International Caux Artists program, part of Initiatives for Change, based in Switzerland. Bev loved his family and was proud of his roots in both the Shenandoah Valley and Richmond, and spent most of his life in the two locations. He founded the Blue Ridge Theater Festival, which had many different productions over a decade, mostly at Court Square Theater in Harrisonburg. In 2024 Bev was honored by the Valentine Museum as a Richmond History Maker for his long-time contributions to the arts in the area. He now joins his sister, Barbara, and his parents, Bev and Libby Lee. Bev is survived by his sister, Sherry; his brother, Joe; his ex-wife and lifelong friend, Melinda; and many nieces, nephews, greats, and great-greats. Above all, Bev's life will be remembered by the thousands of people who saw him perform in hundreds of different roles, and the passion he had for the arts. He was always happiest around his family, at the theater, and at his home in Rawley Springs, hiking and teaching people about the rich and somewhat forgotten history of the area. He also spearheaded the restoration of the historic Spring House at Rawley Springs. Bev started a youtube channel in 2024 - he would be well pleased if you could still enjoy his work even after his passing: . Join us in celebrating this life of an artist and performer by remembering the phrase that defined his life - "a generosity of spirit". An online guestbook is available at www.compassionatecremationva.com www.compassionatecremationva.com/obituaries/beverley-appleton/ Compassionate Cremation Services of Ruckersville, VA is handling the arrangements.

Beverley Lynn Appleton

July 11, 1947 - October 21, 2025