Claude Edward "Ed" Lockard

Claude Edward "Ed" Lockard, of Marianna Florida, went home to be with our Lord on September 1, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on December 7, 1939, in Waynesboro, Tennessee, Ed was the beloved son of Cecil and Gladys Lockard.
At the age of 18, Ed answered his nations call, enlisting in the United States Air Force, beginning a life of service to his country. His military journey took him around the world, including a pivotal assignment in 1966 to Clark Air Base in the Philippines. There, he met the love of his life, Tess. Though his tour ended and he had to return to the States, Ed promised Tess he would come back for her-and he kept that promise. They were married in the Philippines in February of 1967, beginning a marriage marked by devotion and faith that spanned nearly six decades.
Ed retired from the Air Force in 1977 but continued his commitment to service as a civil servant. Throughout his life, he remained a man of strong faith, a proud patriot, and a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Despite enduring hardships-losing his parents at a young age, growing up in an orphanage, and surviving both the Korean and Vietnam wars-Ed carried a resilient spirit. He was known for his love of westerns, country music, and playing guitar and singing. Above all, he found his greatest joy in time spent with Tess, his children, grandchildren, and his faithful dog, Rusty.
Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Gladys Lockard; his brothers Buford Lockard and Cecil Lockard Jr.; and his sisters Annie Lockard, Christine Finney, Dorothy Lockard, Edith Lockard, and Margie Ellis.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Tess Lockard; his children, Joseph Lockard, Cyndee Nigro (Mike), Darlene Griffin (Danny), and Mary Ann Young; and his grandchildren, Kristen Clutch (Michael), Olivia Griffin, Lexy Griffin, Hunter Griffin, and Jasper Young. He also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, and extended family.
A visitation will take place on Saturday, September 20, 2025 from 10 - 11:00 am at St. Dominic Catholic Church, with funeral mass offered by Father Anthony at 11:00 a.m. Inurnment will immediately follow at the Catholic Cemetery on Frankford.
Ed's life was one of faith, love, perseverance, and devotion. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.