Stanton G Lockley

Colonel Stanton G. Lockley, USAF (Ret.), age 95, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2025.

Born on August 1, 1929, Stan devoted his life to service, faith, and family. He is survived by his loving wife, Lydia, his son Greg (Rhonda), his "bonus" children Courtney (Johnny) and Jeff, and his cherished granddaughter, Payton.

Stan and Lydia met at Crosspoint Church (formerly Niceville Methodist Church) through the Grief Support Group, where they found healing, friendship, and ultimately, love. Their marriage was a testimony to God's grace and second chances.

Stan began his distinguished military career when he joined the United States Air Force on July 14, 1951. He retired on February 1, 1982, as a full Colonel after 31 years of faithful service. During the Korean War, he served with the Air Intelligence Services Squadron. Following that, he attended flight school in Mariana, Florida, and later flew combat missions in Vietnam.

On August 6, 1964, Stan's squadron was the first to deploy into combat in Vietnam, serving until January 23, 1966. He became the first pilot to complete 100 missions over North Vietnam in the F-105 Thunderchief, an aircraft he would later call "the best and most modern" of his career. His service included three deployments to Southeast Asia. By August 6, 1964, the squadron deployed again. The squadron deployed again in May 1965. By Thanksgiving only 7 of the 28 pilots were left. Reflecting on those years, Stan once said, "You pray a lot. I learned a lot about life. There was a lot I wish I didn't remember."

As his career advanced, he held key leadership positions: Vice Commander of the 33rd Tactical Fighter Wing at Eglin Air Force Base, Vice Commander of the 56th Tactical Fighter Wing at MacDill Air Force Base, and finally Vice Commander of the Tactical Air Warfare Center (TAWC) before his retirement.

In later years, one of Stan's most meaningful moments came on his 85th birthday, when his wife Lydia and their dear friend Paul Hooper arranged a special photo shoot with the F-105 displayed at the Air Force Armament Museum. Standing beside the aircraft he had flown in combat, with an enlarged photo of himself at the Takhli Royal Thai Air Force Base after his 100th mission. Stan was reminded of both the sacrifices and triumphs of his remarkable career.

Beyond his military accomplishments, Stan was a man of deep faith. He understood that strength did not come from rank or recognition, but from his walk with God. His faith was not something he wore as a badge-it was the compass that guided him. He lived with quiet assurance, conviction, and humility, always pointing others to the hope he found in Christ.

Colonel Stanton G. Lockley served his country with valor and lived his faith with conviction. He led with honor, protected with courage, and loved with steadfast devotion. His legacy of service and faith will continue to inspire all who knew him.

An intimate family memorial service with full military honors was held at Crosspoint Church of Niceville.