Locke, Merrel James, “Pop-Pop”, 81 years old of Upper Township, New Jersey, formerly of Linwood, New Jersey passed away at home surrounded by his family on July 16,2016.
James was born on October 6, 1934 in Belleville, Illinois. James is predeceased by his parents Merrel Elgin and Jean (Barbour) Locke. Surviving are his beloved wife of 60 years, Eileen (MacKain) Locke, his loving daughters Debra Jeanne (Locke) Battersby (Charles), Donna Lynne (Locke) Farren and sister Ann (Locke) Grant (Robert). Grandchildren Jamie Lynne (Battersby), Willard (Jeff), Jeniffer Anne Battersby (Frederick), James Crouch, Desiree (Farren) Blazer (Jason).Great Grandchildren, Hailey, Hannah, Twins- Frederick and Olivia, and Alexis. Nephews and Nieces.
James was a Veteran of the United States Army and stationed in Fort Sill, Oklahoma. He attended Oklahoma University and Rutgers. James Is a 32 Degree Mason of the Linwood Temple. He also was a long time member of the Shriners, Tall Cedars of Lebanon and Royal Order of Jesters Crescent 64 of Trenton, New Jersey. James was employed at Dougherty Brothers in Buena Vista, NJ for 28 years as a Plant Engineer and later at Wheaton Plastics as Director of Engineering.
James enjoyed his antique cars, a 51Mercury and 1929 Ford and cruising the area water with his wife in his Grady White boat.
James was an extraordinary soft spoken gentlemen that loved his family and friends unconditionally. He loved life to the fullest.
A Masonic Funeral Service will be offered Wednesday morning, July 20th at 10:45 am followed by a Memorial Service at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church, Eighth Street at Central Avenue, Ocean City, NJ. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate donations to the Shriners Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, PA as the Shriners was a life passion of James as he adored children.
For condolences to the family, visit www.godfreyfuneralhome.com.
