Finding Home in Chancellorsville: The Beall Family’s Journey

Photo by Karen Presecan

For Jim and Karen Beall, Fredericksburg has always held a special place in their hearts. Their journey together started decades ago in a ninth-grade science class at Crossland Sr. High in Camp Springs MD, where Karen first took notice of Jim—who, at that moment, was sitting outside the classroom for being disruptive. That fateful day sparked a high school romance that carried them through college at separate universities—Karen at Mary Washington College (now the University of Mary Washington) and Jim at the University of Maryland. Despite the distance, their love endured, leading to 40 years of marriage—though, as Karen humorously notes, “it feels like 47.”

After years spent living and working in Maryland, the couple found themselves drawn back to Fredericksburg, reminiscing about their early memories and that charm that had never faded. “We never forgot the charm of Fredericksburg and often came back to attend the Great Lives series at UMW,” Karen explains. As Karen’s real estate work brought her back to the area more frequently, they ultimately made the decision to settle in Chancellorsville nine years ago.

A Life Rooted in Education and Community

Karen and Jim have dedicated their professional lives to education and community service. Karen holds a B.S. in Chemistry and Business from Mary Washington College and worked as a chemist for the U.S. Navy before shifting into real estate. She eventually founded Castle Key Realty in 2010. Most recently, she earned a graduate certificate in Forensic Genetic Genealogy from the University of New Haven. With her latest degree, Karen launched FIGG Tree Analytics, which assists adoptees in finding biological relatives and solving genealogical puzzles.

With a B.A. in Economics from the University of Maryland, Jim started his career with the Environmental Protection Agency before becoming an environmental consultant. However, his passion for guiding young minds led him to a 25-year career in education, teaching first in Maryland, then in Orange County, and now at Faith Baptist School. “Teaching teens in church really opened my eyes to the impact I could have,” Jim shares.

Their four adult children, now living in Maryland and Virginia, have carried on their parents’ active and engaged lifestyle. “Our kids were all involved in sports growing up, and that continues today,” says Jim. Their son’s family, who lives nearby, even participates in the Fawn Lake Triathlon each year. With 12 grandchildren ranging from newborn to 14 years old, family gatherings are lively and full of activity.

Embracing the Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville Lifestyle

For the Bealls, life in Chancellorsville is defined by its tranquility and strong sense of community. “A friend once mentioned that serenity begins once you pass the first cannon, driving west on Route 3, leaving the bustle of town,” Jim reflects. “It’s true; no matter how stressful the day, you feel calmness descend upon you with each passing cannon.”

They’ve enjoyed exploring the area’s history and natural beauty, frequenting places like Culpeper, Charlottesville, and the historic streets of Fredericksburg. Karen makes regular trips to Honey Brook Farms for fresh dairy and farm products, while both enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking at Motts Run.

“We still have a lot to explore,” Karen notes.

Their neighborhood has become an unexpected source of spiritual and social fulfillment for the Bealls. “We didn’t realize how spiritual our neighborhood was until we moved here, but we’ve gotten to know many neighbors through Bible studies,” Jim shares. With their son’s family now in the same subdivision, they make the most of their time together, boating, golfing, and playing pickleball. Their dedication to their neighborhood fosters a strong sense of community and belonging.

A Love for Travel and Family Adventures

While their lives are deeply rooted in Chancellorsville, the Bealls also love to travel. Family vacations have often taken them to Holden Beach, North Carolina, a favorite getaway over the years. Now, as empty nesters, they have broadened their horizons, exploring different parts of the world through cruises.

At home, their lives are enriched by two new four-legged family members—Zoey, a Westie-Yorkie mix rescue, and Ace, a young mix of shih tzu, poodle, and terrier. “That makes him a poo-tzshih, poochie,” Karen laughs. “Get it?”

The Bealls’ Lasting Love for Fredericksburg

Whether it’s their deep-rooted appreciation for Fredericksburg’s history, dedication to education, or commitment to community, the Bealls embody the spirit of Chancellorsville. From their early days of high school romance to building a life filled with purpose and connection, their journey has led them right back to where their love story first began.

“Fredericksburg has always been special to us,” Karen says. “And now, it’s home.”