Barbara Carolyn Locklear

October 1, 1946 – July 23, 2026

Barbara Carolyn Denson Locklear—known fondly to those who loved her as "Babs"—passed away peacefully in Deer Park, Texas, on July 23, 2026, at the age of 79.

Born on October 1, 1946, in Texas City, Texas, Babs lived a life rooted in faith, lifelong learning, and deep devotion to her family. She graduated from La Marque High School before earning a degree in education from Abilene Christian University and then a master’s degree from the University of Houston-Clear Lake, also in education.

Babs shared forty-five wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband, Johnny Locklear, building a warm home and a lasting legacy together in Deer Park before his passing in 2017.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Nell Denson of Dickinson, and her three sisters, Sandra Kessler of Georgetown, Susan Hamby of Harlingen, and Cathy Tucker of Clear Lake.

Her memory will be cherished by her surviving four children: Karen Locklear of Dallas; John Locklear and his wife, Shayla, of Plano; Jeff Locklear and his wife, Sylvia, of Deer Park; and Tyesha Locklear, also of Deer Park. Babs’ greatest joy was her family, and she was immensely proud of her five grandchildren: Anasofia, Logan, Johanna, Josephine, and John, all of whom brought endless light to her life.

The burial service will be held at 11 AM at Grand View Funeral Home and Memorial Park. A celebration of life will be held at 12:30 PM at Parkgate Community Church.

In lieu of sadness, her family invites all who knew and loved Babs to join them in celebrating a life beautifully lived.