Larry Lockhart

Larry Lockhart, 76, died Sunday, September 29, 2024, on his beloved family farm in Stearns. A much-loved and respected member of the Stearns Community and active throughout McCreary County, Larry was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, on October 11, 1947. He was the son of the late James Andrew and Bess Elle (Wright) Lockhart, and the grandson of John L. Wright, whose notable work with the Stearns Company helped establish the town. Larry was baptized at Stearns First Baptist Church and educated in McCreary County public schools. He went on to pursue higher education at the University of Kentucky, where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in Zoology, continuing his lifelong passion for animals, gardening, and farming. An avid sportsman, Larry was a golfer, priding himself on having played Augusta National, a lover of all things outdoors, especially hunting and fishing, and he had a particular interest in music, playing the guitar. He was a great handy man and enjoyed woodworking, often gifting his many projects to family and friends. In 1972, he was married to the former Katherine (Kathy) Edwards at Stearns First Baptist Church in Stearns, Kentucky. They have one daughter, Holly. Remembered for his charisma, wisdom, and wit, Larry became known for his astuteness at business, beginning with early ventures as a lifeguard at Stearns Golf Course and Cumberland Falls State Resort Park and playing ‘Santa Claus’ at Store 1 for the Stearns Company. Later, he was employed at the Bank of McCreary County, served as the Chief Executive Officer of Outdoor Venture Corporation, and was the proprietor of Big South Fork Motor Lodge. He was a member of the Kentucky Bow Hunters Association and served on the Board of Directors for the McCreary County Heritage Foundation and the McCreary County Tourist Commission. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Kathy; his daughter, Holly Lockhart-Kidd, and her husband, Justin, also of Stearns; two grandchildren, Madison Waters and Alan Kidd; and a much-loved sister, Rebecca (Lockhart) Keith and her husband, Estle, of Pawley’s Island, South Carolina. He is predeceased by his parents and three brothers, Howard Lockhart, James Lockhart, and Phillip Lockhart. A celebration of life was held on Sunday, October 6, 2024 at South Fork Cabin Venues in Whitley City.