Dr. James Curtis Lock

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Dr. James Curtis Lock, a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather and great-great-grandfather, who passed away on January 5, 2025, at the age of 96. Born in Percilla, Texas, on October 26, 1928, he was known for his unwavering commitment to family, his strong work ethic, and his devotion to the field of education, both public and private. Dr. Lock is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Lou Posey Lock, his parents Jesse and Mary Lock of Percilla, brothers Oscar Lock and wife Eva of Nacogdoches, Earl Lock and wife Nell of Elkhart, sisters Mary Bell Skidmore and husband Russell of Grapeland, Alma Cutler and husband Elmer of Diboll, Jessie Miles and husband Elmer of Keene, Stella Clark and husband Elmer of Pasadena, great-grandson Lance Keener of Longview and 4 nephews and 6 nieces. He is survived by his children, Sarah Lock Cole and husband Beaver of Longview and James Michael Lock and wife Marie of Gilmer, grandchildren Celeste Fears and husband Jerry of Longview, Kristine Natseway and husband David of Albuquerque, NM, Jennifer McDonald and husband Josh of Kyle, Chris Lock and wife Angela of Bullard, and Jason Lock and wife Tamara of Tulsa, OK, as well as 14 great-grandchildren and 9 great-great grandchildren. He is also survived by several nephews and nieces. Dr. Lock was a Master Mason in Big Sandy Lodge No. 916, Longview Lodge No. 404, and Bethesda Lodge No. 142. He served as Worshipful Master in each lodge and his service lasted 60 years. He was a longtime member of Oakland Heights Baptist Church in Longview, attending and serving in many capacities. Dr. Lock received his PhD from the University of Houston and EdD from East Texas State University (aka Texas A&M Commerce). His studies were focused on his interests in physical education and students’ academic achievements. His career in education include coach, teacher, superintendent, principal, college professor, assistant vice president of academic affairs, and athletic director for LeTourneau University, Sul Ross State University, East Texas State University, Wiley College, and East Texas Baptist University. His military service was a Captain in the National Guard and Army Reserves. A celebration of his life will be held at Rader Funeral Home in Longview, Texas on January 11, 2025, at 10:00am, and graveside services to follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Percilla, TX at 3:00pm. Family visitation will be 9:00-10:00am prior to the funeral service at Rader. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Dr. Lock’s honor be made to Shriners Hospital for Children.

Dr. James Curtis Lock

October 26, 1928 - January 5, 2025