Dr. Michael V. Lock

Born, in Stamford in the county of Rutland in England in 1927. During Dr. Lock’s high school years, he experienced the sights and sounds of the Germans bombing England during WWII. His graduating class was that of 1944. He attended the University of Manchester in 1944. Best chemistry school in the British Isles-B.Sc. With honors, 1947: M.Sc. Chemistry 1948; Ph.D. Organic Chemistry1950. Post Doctoral fellowship, 1957-58, Queens University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada, while working, 1950-1960 as a Research Chemist for British Rayon Research Association, Manchester, England

A business career with Milliken & Company spanned from 1961-2003. Dr. Lock’s Ph.D. position encompassed Senior Research Chemist and then Research Manager at Milliken Research Corporation, Spartanburg, SC. Director of Research & Development. Floorcovering operations (LaGrange, Georgia) and finally Business Manager for Millitron and International Licensing.

Hired initially in 1961 by Mr. Roger Milliken and subsequently by Dr. Thomas Joseph (Tom) Malone, Ph.D. Dr. Lock was one of the original minds behind the development of the revolutionary Millitron method of making patterned carpets. In 1975, Milliton technology became the basis of a successful global licensing business. Along with a highly talented team of scientists and engineers he managed this business successfully until his retirement in 2003.

Dr. Lock’s accolades include scientific papers and articles in various publications and journals. He also holds patents from the U.S. and other countries on the first permanent press cotton and synthetic apparel fabrics. Also, Dr. Lock, enjoyed the following professional activities, President of Manchester University Chemical Society. President Western Carolinas Section of the American Chemical Society, a 50-year member of the American Chemical Society. He was also active on various Industry Trade Association and American Textile Manufacture Institute committees.

Volunteer activities included Trustee of LaGrange Academy, Georgia Fund for Private Colleges (Chair), and former Moss Creek Pool & Social Committee.

Dr. Lock was a long-time member of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church and a Lifelong member of the World-Wide Anglican Communion which recognizes the Archbishop of Canterbury as its head. Formerly active in various dioceses of the Church including the Church of England. The Church of Coanda and the Episcopal Church of the United States. Licensed by the Lord Bishop of Chester as a reader/preacher in 1945

Survivors include:

His Wife: Beverly (nee Waters) Lock

Children: Christopher Lock (Deceased), Daughter-in-law: Carol

Philip Lock (Ellie)

Jillian Lock Hutcheson

John Lock (Sandra)

David Lock (April)

Caroline Lock Martin (Jack)

Catherine Lock Arrington (Jim)

Grandchildren Jennifer Lock (deceased) Stephanie Lock Sallings (Jeremy), Jessi Lock Meier, Emily Lock, Greg Hutchenson (Tiffany Liu), Jeff Hutcheson (Alainey), Kim Lock Harms (Mike), Jane Lock Schwoebel (Henry), Kevin Lock (Mary), Erin Lock Caron (Jesse), Kristin Lock Caron (Jesse), Casey Lucore, Avery Prichard, Jackson Martin, Garrett Martin, Lucas Martin, Abbey Arrington Moody (Logan), Andrew Arrington (Sally)

17 Great Grandchildren

Several nieces and nephews

Close friends and Caregiver: Kenneth Lipscomb, Dianna McGruter, Bob Linton

Special thanks for the excellent care from Wellstar West Georgia Hospice, Acti-Kare, Home Helpers, and the staff of Striffler-Hamby Mortuary

Dr. Lock was preceded in death by his parents, Harold & Gladys May (nee-Loach) (Janie) Lock, Wife: Margaret (nee Jervis) Lock and Brother & Sister-in-law: David Anthony (Eleanor) Lock

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A Celebration of Life Service for Dr. Michael Vernon Lock will be held at 4:00 P.M., Thursday, June 13, 2024, at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 207 North Greenwood Street, LaGrange, Georgia 30240. The Reverend. Andrew Gordon & Dr. Paul R. Baxter will officiate. A private family inurnment will follow the service in the Church Garden. A reception (visitation) will follow the Service in the Parrish Hall following the inurnment.

In lieu of flowers donations/contributions can be made to St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 207 North Greenwood Street, LaGrange, Georgia 30240

Those wishing to share a condolence or remembrance with the family may do so by visiting www.shlagrange.com

Memorial arrangements are by Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 1010 Mooty Bridge Road, LaGrange, Georgia 30240 (706) 884-8636