Howson had an early chance for the Whites but put his effort over the crossbar after intelligent play from Beckford.
Leeds then took the lead on 18 minutes when Beckford made another chance for Howson who this time beat keeper Robert Olejnik low to the ground.
Ian Bennett denied Lee Hendrie just before the half-hour when he saved a right-foot effort from the midfielder.
Leeds deservedly doubled the score just before the break when Howson layed off a ball for Beckford and the young striker duly obliged.
Goal number three seemed certain 10 minutes into the second half but Joel Griffiths had his effort saved and the impressive Beckford put the rebound wide.
Beckford had another certain goal saved on the hour and his strike partner Howson was also denied by Olejnik 10 minutes later.
A couple of minutes later and the Villa keeper made a breathtaking save from Beckford as Leeds were rampant against a tired looking team playing their third game in only five days.
In the final ten minutes former Birmingham keeper Bennett made another save from Hendrie as he blocked his shot with his legs.
Peter Whittingham scored a late consolation for the Villains when he met a de la Cruz header with only 3 minutes left on the clock.
Leeds reserves final game of the season will see them away to Wolves on May 2.
Leeds: Bennett, Camfield, Parker, Madden, Hird, Bayly, Griffiths, Rose, Beckford, Howson, Gardner.
Subs: Serrant, Wilberforce, Brown, Hutton, Ameobi.