Maurine Locke

Born on December 7, 1923, Maurine’s life unfolded across one of the most remarkable centuries in American history. She turned eighteen on Pearl Harbor Day, and her years spanned seventeen presidents, profound change and innovation, and more true friendships than anyone ever managed to count. She was a woman of deep faith, unwavering kindness, and a quiet strength that guided her family through both ordinary days and life’s greatest challenges.

To know her was to be welcomed into her home, private chapel, and scenic deck overlooking Cross Lake, where faith was practiced, friendships were nurtured, and love flowed generously. Maurine had a gift for making people feel seen, heard, and better than they did before encountering her.

Her faith in God was the cornerstone of her life. It shaped her character, guided her decisions, and gave her peace in times of uncertainty. She didn’t just speak about her faith—she lived it, daily, in acts of compassion, forgiveness, and grace.

She married the love of her life, Patrick Roger Locke, on June 16, 1945, and though she was widowed far too soon on September 14, 1953, her love for him never wavered. Together, they built the foundation of a family that would grow and flourish for generations.

She was the devoted mother of two “precious” (her word!) sons, Patrick “Ricky” Locke and John Phillip Locke, both of whom (she often said) were the great joys of her life.

Maurine’s (Mema’s) legacy continues through her eight “incredible” grandchildren—Damian, Regan, Ryan, Christian, Katie, Laura, Remi, and Kross—and her five “perfect” great-grandchildren: Wolfe, Silas, Harlan, Zev, and Avery. She wanted it known, without hesitation, that she loved all four of her terrific daughters-in-law—Cindi, Charlee, Becky, and Annie—and John’s wonderful companion, Darcy Randolph, each and all of whom held a special place in her heart.

She was preceded in death by six of her seven beloved siblings and is survived by her dear sister, Ann Bickham.

Maurine lived her professional life as a teacher, a calling she embraced with passion and purpose. Her classroom knew no boundaries—geographically or academically—as she taught in cities as diverse as Toronto, San Juan, Malden, and Shreveport. Her students encompassed all grades from nursery and elementary school to college courses at Lesley College in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Her leadership was equally impactful, serving as Principal of Barret Elementary and St. Mark’s Day School, where she shaped not only young minds but the very institutions that supported them.

Her volunteer work would fill the entire space allotted for this obituary—and spill off the page and cover the floor upon which you are standing. There was hardly a role she didn’t embrace: Superintendent of Sunday School, Director of Caddo Parish Reading Center, Chairman of numerous committees, and Coordinator of countless organizations. With great devotion she formed and worked with the local Solo Flight group at St. Matthias Church for many years, and her achievements and honors—with all due respect—go on and on and on!

Yet, above all titles and accomplishments, reading—and teaching others to read—was her true calling. She devoted herself to literacy in every setting imaginable: at the Shreveport-Bossier Rescue Mission, through Literacy Volunteers at Centenary College, and even in her own home. She believed deeply that the ability to read could change a life and she spent her life proving it.

She had an ever-present twinkle in her eye, an engaging wit, and a remarkable sense of humor that never faded, even as the years passed. She could deliver a perfectly timed comment, a knowing look, or a gentle tease that reminded everyone not to take life too seriously. She often said that laughter was one of God’s greatest gifts—and she made sure to share it.

Though we mourn her passing, we celebrate a life beautifully lived. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, resilience, and kindness that will continue to echo through generations.