Dewanyer Lockett

Dewanyer Pearson-Meeks-Lockett was born on February 3, 1936, in Warren, Ohio, to Eugene and Ida Bell "Dessie" Jordan-Pearson-Lane. Her family later relocated to Youngstown, Ohio, where she spent her formative years. On Sunday, November 2, 2025, her faith became sight as she answered the summons to her heavenly home. Dewanyer attended South High School. In 1967, she married William U. Meeks and served as the manager of The Oldtimers in Youngstown. Following William's untimely passing, she moved her family to Jacksonville, Florida in 1973, seeking
peace and a fresh start. There, she united with First Baptist Church of Oakland, where she was baptized by Pastor C. B. Dailey, a spiritual mentor she deeply admired and respected.

In Jacksonville, Dewanyer pursued higher education and professional growth. She attended Florida Junior College and graduated from the Florida Real Estate Institute. After earning her realtor's license, she began a successful real estate career, working with several firms including Century 21 and Gloster & Associates. Her dedication, professionalism, and excellence in service earned her recognition as a member of the prestigious Century 21 Million Dollar Club. In addition to her real estate accomplishments, Dewanyer worked for American Express, where she served faithfully for several years before retiring. She was also civically engaged, serving as a former board member of the Northeast Planning and Zoning Board and as a member of the Board of Directors for the Consumer Credit Counseling Service.

In 1975, Dewanyer married Johnny B. Lockett. Together, they founded D & J Construction, a company specializing in the rehabilitation of residential properties, many of which she later sold through her real estate business. Their partnership reflected a shared entrepreneurial vision, integrity, and commitment to community improvement. A woman of deep faith and creativity, Dewanyer found comfort and peace in writing
spiritual poetry. Her heartfelt verses became a personal source of strength and inspiration. Later in life, she published a book "A Voice Within Me Speaks" of her prayers and poems to share her faith, hope, and encouragement with others. Dewanyer leaves behind a loving and devoted family, including her three daughters: Teryle Shellman and Dewanyer "Stacey" Taylor, both of Jacksonville, and Lisa (Harry) Goldberg of Tampa, Florida; two sons: Pastor J. Dwayne (Shahara) Heard of Youngstown, Ohio, and Jason (Dr. Tonya) Pearson of Jacksonville, Florida; her brother, Cornell Lane of Youngstown, Ohio; bonus son, William U. Meeks of Youngstown, Ohio; and bonus daughter, Kisha (Le Eddy) Lockett-Curry of
Jacksonville, Florida.

Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Keith Bowers, Kiara Taylor, Jason R., Juston, Jarrett, Jordan, Jaden Pearson, and Juanna "Dolly" Davis, all of Jacksonville, Florida; Felica Davis and Kinsley A. (Noah) Lewis of Brandon, Florida; Joshua (Diana) Goldberg of Seattle, Washington; George Goldberg of New York, New York; and Christian Heard of Youngstown, Ohio. She is further blessed with 16 great-grandchildren, sisters-in-law: Shirlee Muse of Warrensville Heights, Ohio, and Gerri (Al) Denson and Jackie, both of Jacksonville, Florida, along with several bonus grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, cousins, and extended family. She is also fondly remembered by a cherished friend like a sister, Arlene Greene of Youngstown, Ohio; a dear friend & colleague, Deborah Thompson of Jacksonville, Florida; longtime friend Ernest "Buddy" Benson of Warren, Ohio, and her goddaughter, Catreia "Trix" Davis, of Jacksonville, Florida. As Dewanyer entered eternity, she joins the family ancestors which are among the great clouds of witnesses that includes her parents and stepfather, Perry Lane; her husbands, William U. Meeks and Johnny B. Lockett; her son, Eugene Davis; brothers, Eugene (Jeanette) Pearson, Milton (Anita) Pearson, and Michael Lane; sisters, Anita Lane and Laura Diane Lane; stepsister, Delores Lane-McNeil; niece, Leslie Turner; and nephew, Leonard "Putt" Richardson.
Dewanyer Pearson-Meeks-Lockett lived a life of faith, love, service, and strength. She leaves behind a rich legacy of perseverance, compassion, and faith in God that will continue to inspire generations to come.

The visitation will be held in the mortuary on Friday, November 14, 2025, from 5:00PM-7:00PM. The celebration of life will be held Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 11:00AM in the First Baptist Church of Oakland, Rev. Dr. Christopher McKee, Jr. officiant. There will be a committal ceremony at Tod Homestead Cemetery, Youngstown, Ohio on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at 11:00AM.

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