Mr. John Aster Locklear Jr (John Jr), 56 of Lumberton, NC departed this life on June 27, 2026, at home surrounded by family, after a courageous battle with cancer. John Jr. was born in Lumberton on September 8, 1969.

During his current term he served as the Fire Chief of Raft Swamp Fire Department,  Assistant Chief of Pembroke City Fire Department, and Captain of Pembroke Rescue, he was also a former member of Lumberton Rescue Squad where he proudly served along with his father, and former member of Saddletree Fire Department where he first started his journey. John Jr was a dedicated service member to his community. He was a teacher, a leader, a friend, a father, a brother, a son and a husband. His commitment to helping others defined his life, and his impact will be felt for generations.

He is survived by his loving wife Camilla Locklear of 37 years of the home, his parents John & Doris Locklear of Lumberton, his three children Tiffany Hunt (Ken), of Pembroke, NC, Matthew Locklear (Taylor) of Maxton, NC, Briana Jones (Adam) of Rowland, NC. He was a loving papa to his  nine grandchildren Kameron, Landyn, Braylon, Grayson, Jace, Zaelee, Kylan, Kayson, & Jaxxon, with one more expected to arrive in September. He is survived by two sisters, Judith Douglas (Jeff) & Selina Locklear of Lumberton NC. His best friend Michael Lashley of many years. He leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews who adored him and entrusted him. As well as all his friends in the fire, rescue, and law enforcement community.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents Jim and Manoma Strickland, Mary Elizabeth Sampson Locklear & Roy Locklear, a very close cousin Dwayne Prentis Strickland, and a brother-in-law Milford Locklear.