Richard A. Lockhart

Richard was born in Framingham, Massachusetts on October 21, 1933.

He is preceded in death by:

his parents, Fuller and Delora (McLain) Lockhart his loving wife of 58 years, Janice Diane (Gardner) Lockhart, married on March 21, 1958, and his son, Jeffrey Paul Lockhart.

He is survived by:

his brother Roy Lockhart

his best friend and son, Paul Richard Lockhart his grandchildren: Heather (Tyler), Kristen (Evan), Jill, Jason, Kacey (Jesús), Grace (Timothy), Austin, Dylan, and Devin his great-grandchildren: Ryder, Cambree, Aria, Samuel and Brantley, his daughter-in-love Katie, extended family who love him dearly, and his beloved great-grand-dog and companion, Luna.

Richard was drafted and served as a Private First-Class Ammunition Supply Specialist in the US ARMY during the Korean War. He loved this Country and the American flag. "This flag means so much to so many people," he often said.

He had a career with Converse Rubber Company, writing the quality standards for their sneakers and traveling worldwide inspecting shoes from their factories. Richard also worked for and retired from the K-Mart Corporation.

Richard had a deep interest in politics. His political career began while raising his family in Salem, New Hampshire, where he served the people as a Selectman for two terms. He moved to Sarasota County, Florida, in 1979 and proudly served as a North Port City Commissioner for two terms (2000-2008). As a Commissioner, he enjoyed a mutually supportive relationship with the North Port Fire and Police Departments. He valued the next generation and was instrumental in developing youth recreational facilities. His name is on plaques and benches throughout North Port, including the North Port Aquatic Center, Morgan Center, and Highland Ridge Park. Other community involvement included the Noon Kiwanis Club since 1996, North Port Area Republican Club (NPARC), Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW Post 8203), North Port Kitchen Band, where he performed with his tambourine and Meals on Wheels. He was honored by the City of North Port, declaring April 9, 2019, as “Richard Lockhart Day” and given a key to the city. Richard Lockhart embodied his campaign slogan, "A leader who listens," not only in his community but in his family.

Richard lived a life full of passion and adventure. He and his wife, Janice, enjoyed traveling and cruising the world together. They spent many weekends sunbathing and fishing at the North Jetty in Nokomis, Florida. One of his favorite pastimes was boating and water skiing with his son, Paul.

He was the best father and never missed a sporting practice or game for Paul. He also attended, whenever possible, every sporting event, school program, or meaningful moment for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The most impactful moment of his life was at age 85, when he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. This was followed by his obedience in baptism by Pastor Frank Vargo at Freedom Bible Church. Richard described this as "Divine intervention."

He was a friend to everyone who crossed his path, sharing his humor and life stories. He was a regular patron at Longhorn Steakhouse, Perkins in North Port, and Alvaro's Family Restaurant for "Spaghetti Wednesday," but only ordered a Chef’s Salad. His final years were spent daily with his best friend and son, Paul, while proudly being the "Pops" of Lockhart Painting, Inc. to all employees and customers.

We know we will see him again in Heaven, but until then, as Richard would say, "Stay loose, whatever that means."

All are invited to a celebration of life on Friday, June 28, 2024, at 10 AM at Freedom Bible Church, 5550 S Sumter Blvd, North Port, FL 34287.

A Military Honors ceremony will be held at 2 PM at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 SR-72, Sarasota, FL 34241.

After, Richard will be reunited with and laid to rest beside his beloved wife in a private family burial.

Richard wanted everyone to dress casually and comfortably for the Florida heat; shorts are welcome.

Condolences can be sent to the family at 6750 Myrtlewood Rd, North Port, FL 34287.