Locksley Charles died February 22, 2018, of heart failure. Married to the late Merna Charles for 57 years and survived by their three grateful children: Donald, Lester (Kristin) and Steven (Carol); grandchildren Noah (Joy), Abigail, Eden, Phineas, Jamal, and Jodi; preceded in death by grandson Jamie.

Locksley was born in Trinidad and Tobago but was raised in Chicago, IL since the age of seventeen. A veteran of World War II, he served in the South Pacific with the Coast Guard and with the U.S. Naval Reserve during the Korean War. A dedicated educator, his vocation in public education spanned almost 60 years. He began his teaching career at Chicago Public Schools, where he taught history and social studies, coached cross country, and developed innovative programs in "conservation of natural resources," Japanese language, and vocational education.

In Locksley’s retirement, he enjoyed playing cricket, fishing, and gardening. A life-long Presbyterian, he and Merna were members of The Fourth Presbyterian Church in Chicago.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 3 at 12:00 PM at The Fourth Presbyterian Church, 126 East Chesnut St. in Chicago. A reception will follow. Mr. Charles asked that in lieu of flowers, memorials be directed to his church.