Beals was one of four candidates on the Nov. 5 ballot seeking three council seats.
The city could appoint someone to fill the remainder of his term this year, but City Council has not yet decided that, according to City Manager Wayne Davis.
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Meanwhile, officials are trying to determine what happens in the current election. Early voting already has begun.
Montgomery County Board of Elections officials and Centerville officials are trying to determine if the remaining three candidates automatically win. The remaining three candidates are incumbents Belinda Kenley and Mark Engert, and challenger Louis Lunsford.
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Beals was chair of the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission, and the non-profit organization on Tuesday released a video tribute in honor of him.
Washington Township Trustee President Dale Berry also noted the townships’s high regard for the councilman’s dignity, contributions and kindness.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of John’s passing. Township officials have had the opportunity to work with John for many years, and we know him to be a champion for our entire Centerville/Washington Township community. John brought a depth of insight to issues and initiatives that can only be developed through decades of community involvement,” Berry said. “During those many years, he has conducted himself with dignity, kindness and respect for others. He will be deeply missed.”
Beals, 83, apparently suffered a heart attack during Monday’s event, and Mayor Brooks Compton was by his side until medics arrived.
Beals loved Centerville, according to city officials. He had lived in the city since 1965 and held a seat on City Council since 2008.
Beals and his wife, former Centerville mayor Sally Beals, have been married for 60 years. They share three children and three grandchildren. He loved gardening, tennis, traveling and Rotary Club.
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