BILL LOCKE

Bill Locke, 90, of Bristol, VA passed away on Thursday, March 19, 2026 at NHC in Bristol, VA. He was born on December 02, 1935 in Atoka, OK to the late Elizabeth and Charles Locke. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a step-sister, Shirley Sharp. 

He moved to Bristol, VA in 1967. Bill was a graduate of Big Stone Gap Highschool in 1953. He received his Bachelor of Science Degree from Virginia Military Institute in 1957. He received his Master's Degree from Appalachian State University. He was a College Professor at the University of Tennessee and also Virginia Tech for a brief period of time and was the Academic Dean at Sullins College until its closure. He then became a College Professor at Virginia Highlands Community College where he served for over 40 years. Bill served in the U.S. Army Reserves for 12 years and was honorably discharged in 1969 as a Captain. He was a member of the Bristol evening Lions Club and Kiwanis, sang with the Voices of Mountains Chorus, and performed with Theater Bristol. He was a member of Reynolds Memorial Methodist Church.

He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Carol Locke; one daughter, Elizabeth LeAnn Fleenor of Atlanta, GA; one son, Michael Locke and his wife, Kimberly, of Bristol, VA; three granddaughters, Beth Fleenor, Rachel Little, and Kelly Locke; and one great granddaughter, Mariana Little. 

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Angel Martin for all her care and help over the years.

A gathering of friends will take place from 5:00 PM until 6:00 PM Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at Reynolds Memorial Methodist Church. A memorial service will follow at 6:00 PM Tuesday at the church with Pastor Clayton Farmer officiating. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions can be sent to Reynolds Memorial Methodist Church, 327 W. Mary St., Bristol, VA 24201 or to a favorite charity of one's choice. Online condolences can be sent and viewed by visiting www.BlevinsCares.com. 

Funeral arrangements were trusted to Blevins Funeral & Cremation Services, 417 Lee Street Bristol, VA 24201; ph.#: (276) 669-6141.