Jess Boyd Lockhart Obituary, Death – Beloved Educator and Family Man Dies at 92

Jess Boyd Lockhart, a longtime educator, devoted husband and beloved father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on August 26, 2026, shortly after celebrating his 92nd birthday.

Lockhart was the devoted husband of Reba Ringley Lockhart, with whom he shared 65 years of marriage. He was also a loving father to his two sons, Jess Wayne (Renee) Lockhart of Bluff City, Tennessee, and David (Kelly) Lockhart of Lexington, Kentucky.

He leaves behind three grandchildren, Leighton, Landry and Laine Lockhart of Lexington, as well as his brother, Fred Lockhart, and several nieces and nephews, including Cindy, Teddy, Glenn, Anthony and Todd.

Remembering Jess Boyd Lockhart

Lockhart dedicated much of his life to education. After attending East Tennessee State College and earning a degree in education, he began his teaching career at Ervinton High School, where he spent 15 years.

He later joined Clintwood High School, remaining there for another 22 years. He eventually served as a guidance counselor before retiring in 1996.

For Lockhart, education was not simply a career. His family remembered it as a calling through which he could influence and encourage young people and make a meaningful difference in their lives.

A life filled with family, golf and storytelling

During retirement, Lockhart enjoyed having more time for the activities and people he loved. Golf was among his favorite pastimes, particularly when he could play alongside his sons and longtime friends.

He remained active in the community through Kiwanis and enjoyed visiting with friends. He was also an avid reader, with a particular interest in history.

Those who knew him will also remember his gift for storytelling and his sense of humor. Some of his stories may have been difficult to verify, his family acknowledged, but they were always entertaining and delivered with a warmth that made them memorable.

Lockhart was preceded in death by his parents, Rudolph and Draxie Lockhart; his sister, Phyllis Lockhart Phillips; and his brother, Sidney Lockhart.

His family and friends are mourning a man whose life was marked by kindness, wisdom, humor and a commitment to others. The stories he shared and the lives he influenced will remain part of his lasting legacy.

Funeral arrangements

Visitation for Jess Boyd Lockhart will begin at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, August 29, at Mullins Funeral Home in Clintwood, Virginia. Funeral services will follow at 3:00 p.m., with RL and Jane Crawford scheduled to speak.

Burial will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to the Banner Revival Center, P.O. Box 2212, Coeburn, Virginia 24230.

Mullins Funeral Home and its staff are assisting the Lockhart family.