James "Leonard" Locklear

On July 25, James Leonard Locklear, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, departed this life for his Heavenly home at the age of 84. He was born July 31, 1941, in Scotland County, son of the late Robert Wilson Locklear and Dorothy Locklear McGirt. He dedicated many years of his career as a tool and die maker at Butler Manufacturing, where he was known for his strong work ethic and craftsmanship. Outside of work, James found joy in the simple things in life. He loved spending time fishing from the pier at Sunset Beach, cheering on the North Carolina Tar Heels, watching Washington Redskins football, and following NASCAR, where Richard Petty was always his favorite driver. He also took great pride in building a truck that he truly loved and enjoyed showing everyone. He was a faithful member of Oak Grove Baptist Church. He served in many capacities through the years, as youth leader, Sunday school teacher, VBS leader and deacon.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Martha “Frances” Reece Locklear, granddaughter, Morgan Faith Locklear, sister, Sharon “Pam” Chavis Brigman and brother-in-law, Charles Owens Reece.
James leaves behind his loving daughters, Connie Locklear Logelin (Roger) of Raleigh, Pamela Locklear McGirt (Elton) of Laurinburg, Aneissa Joy Locklear of Laurinburg; brother, Hilbert Locklear (Betty) of Laurinburg, sister-in-law Inez Reece Harris (Horace) of Dunn; his loving grandchildren Joshua Logelin (Emily), Jordan Logelin (Danny Frangella), Harleigh Faulk, and great-grandchildren James & Matthew Logelin and Trudy Frangella, and a host of loving family and many friends.

The family will receive family and friends from 2-3 p.m. on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at Richard Boles Funeral Service Chapel followed by a service at 3 p.m. to honor the life of James. Burial will follow the service in the Oak Grove Baptist Church Cemetery.

James lived an admirable life defined by his unwavering faith, love for his family, and strength. He will be deeply loved, forever remembered, and greatly missed by all who knew him.

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