Bobbie Gene Locke

Bobbie Gene Locke, a respected figure in his community and a loving family man, passed away on January 9, 2025, at the age of 88 in Selmer, Tennessee. Born on January 23, 1936, in Selmer, he was the youngest of eleven children. Bobbie lived a life full of achievements and cherished memories, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to both his profession and his family.

Bobbie served as the plant manager for Brown Shoe Company in Charleston, Missouri, for 20 years, where he faithfully oversaw approximately 700 employees. His leadership skills shone through as he instituted an in-house kitchen for the workers, a program that proved both successful and profitable, ultimately inspiring similar initiatives at other Brown Shoe locations. He also implemented manufacturing protocols that increased production while reducing re-runs to less than one percent. In July of 1999, Bobbie returned to his roots in McNairy County, purchasing a home just a few miles from where he had been born and raised.

A graduate of Selmer High School, Bobbie was not only known for his career but also for his passions. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and became an accomplished bowhunter. He could have owned any fishing boat he chose but preferred the traditional approach of fishing off the bank. Bobbie was also a skilled woodworker and antique furniture refinisher, taking great pride in his craftsmanship. His musical tastes leaned toward classic country from the 1970s and 1980s. He attended the Selmer First United Methodist Church whenever possible, reflecting his strong values and connection to his community.

Bobbie is survived by his three sons: Kevin Locke and wife Lee of Ramer, Tennessee; Tim Locke and fiancée D. J. Scarborough of Selmer, Tennessee; and Chris Locke and wife Jennifer of Collierville, Tennessee. He also leaves behind ten beloved grandchildren: Lindsay Locke, Bobby Kenneth Locke and wife Lauren, B. K. Locke and wife Christina, Christopher Locke, Autumn Nicole Phillips and husband Joseph, Lydia Norelle Locke, Abby Michelle Locke, Gabriel Locke, Jessika Mizell, and Nathan Mizell and wife Emma Lee; as well as four great-grandchildren: Riley, Madison, Everett, and Johanna. He is also survived by his former spouse and the mother of his children, Wanda Kay Kemp of Selmer, Tennessee, and many extended family members and friends.

Bobbie was preceded in death by his parents, Beal Columbus and Hattie Agnes Johnson Locke; a son, Bobby Keith Locke; a grandson, Hardin County Deputy Sheriff and U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Matthew Stephen Locke; six sisters: Lula Sanders, Graple Isbell, Dorothy Isbell, Lila Fern Qualls, Agnes McGee, and Elsie Jane Kirkman; and four brothers: Carl Lee Locke, Harl C. Locke, Arlie B. Locke, and J. T. Locke.

Bobbie Gene Locke will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his spirit and the memories he created will forever remain in the hearts of his family and friends.