Lawrence Locker, Sr.

Lawrence Locker, Sr., age 95 of Ellis, Kansas died Saturday October 25, 2025, at Trego Lemke Memorial Hospital - WaKeeney.

He was born on January 9, 1930, at home in Trego, County. He married Lucy Claudell November 10, 1962, in Hays, Kansas.

Lawrence was a humble man with a deep love for the land. He cared deeply about preserving it for future generations and was recognized with several awards for his conservation work in Trego County. His respect for nature and animals showed in the way he lived every day.

Farming wasn’t just his work—it was his way of life. He found purpose in the fields, peace in the open sky, and pride in a job done right. There wasn’t much he couldn’t fix, even without formal training. If something was broken, he’d find a way to make it work again.

He was always curious and eager to learn, spending time reading, keeping up with current events, and learning about the world around him. He never lost that spark for knowledge or the joy of discovering something new.

Above all, he was steady, hardworking, and kind—a man who loved his family, his land, and the simple, honest life he built.

Lawrence is survived by his sons; Lawrence Locker Jr. (Taunia), Statesboro, GA; John Locker (Cathy O’Rourke) Westminster, CO; Steve Locker, Ellis, KS; Tom Locker (Serena) Wichita, KS; daughter, Jessica Smith (Ben), and grandsons, Connor Locker and Hudson Smith, all of Overland Park, KS.

He was preceded by his wife, Lucy Claudell Locker; parents, sisters; Mary Anne Locker, Anna Locker, brother Joe Locker, and granddaughter Noel Lanci.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday November 1, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 703 Monroe Street Ellis, Kansas 67637. Viewing and visitation will be from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM prior to services with a Rosary service beginning at 10:30 AM. Interment will follow the mass in the parish cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to Ellis Nutrition Center - Meals on Wheels, in care of the Funeral Chapel.

Services in care of Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Keithley Funeral Chapel, 400 East 17th Street Ellis, Kansas 67637.

Memories and words of comfort may be shared with Lawrence's family on his tribute page via: www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com