Chris Allen Lockhart

Chris Allen Lockhart, 65, of Peoria, IL, peacefully passed away on Monday, January 26, 2026, at his residence.

A man of quiet faith, he looked forward to meeting the Lord, and to reuniting with his loved ones.

Chris was born on August 23, 1960, in Peoria, IL, to Robert Earl Lockhart and Patricia Ann Lockhart (Ayres-Golden). He grew up in Bartonville on Burns Avenue and Stuaan Court. He was a graduate of Limestone High School, class of 1978. He played trombone in the high school band. In his early 20s he worked for Rebeck Sporting Goods, where he drilled bowling balls, and cooked at The Tiki Club Restaurant. He also worked for Caterpillar in East Peoria.

In the Summer of 1991, after accepting a job with Lockheed Martin in Marietta, GA, he moved with his wife and small children to begin their lives down south. He also worked for Target Container Co briefly before accepting a job with Chief Container Co in Acworth, GA, where he worked for 15+ years. Chris' work ethic and dedication to both his career and providing for his family were unmatched and earned him a great deal of respect amongst those who knew him.

After 28 years in Georgia, Chris moved back to Illinois with his wife, where he spent his final years. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle, gem hunting, glass collecting, mushroom hunting, fishing, and being outside. He was a brilliant man, with the ability to solve complex math problems in his head and built engines from scratch. He also enjoyed model rockets and launching potatoes from a PVC pipe potato cannon. Anything of a mechanical nature fascinated him. He held multiple patents from the various inventions he created. He adored cats. He cherished spending time with his family, especially outdoors, where many fall evenings were spent together around a campfire, sleeping under the stars.

A fiercely protective family man, he is survived by his beloved wife, and devoted partner of over 42 years, Mona (Black) Lockhart; son, Joshua (Marcella) Black; daughter, Justina (Taylor) Moulton; grandson, Rylan Black; sister, Beth Lockhart; feline companion, Checkers; feline "grandchildren", Stella, Eadie, and Kringle; brother-in-law and dear friend, Brian Black; as well as various aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved.

Chris was preceded in death by his parents, who he missed so much; Bob and Pat Lockhart, his little sister, Kathy Lockhart, and grandparents, Maude Buehler, and Earl and Millie Lockhart.

The family would like to extend thanks to OSF Hospice for their wonderful care and compassion during a tremendously difficult time.

Chris wished to be cremated and have his ashes placed next to his parents and sister in a countryside cemetery in Unaka, North Carolina. A celebration of Chris' life will be planned for Spring. Memorial donations in Chris' memory may be made to EveryCat Health Foundation or River Kitty Café in Peoria, IL.

Hurley Funeral Home in Mason City, IL, has been entrusted with the arrangements.