James Orville Lockhart

James Orville Lockhart, known affectionately as Jim, passed away on October 21, 2023, in Independence, Missouri, surrounded by family. He was born on February 18, 1938, in Mayview, Missouri to Orville and Lillian Lockhart. Jim's life was one filled with love, laughter, and a deep devotion to his family and friends. Jim dedicated much of his working life as an assistant supervisor at Hallmark Cards. His commitment to his job was unwavering, and his colleagues respected him for his hard work and dedication. Jim took great pride in his role and ensured that his team felt supported and valued. Outside of work, Jim had an array of interests and hobbies that brought joy to his life. He had a true passion for sports and could often be found glued to multiple televisions at home watching football, basketball, baseball, or bowling. In fact, he was an active participant in Hallmark's bowling and basketball leagues, and he enjoyed playing fast pitch softball too. Jim's enthusiasm for these sports brought him closer to his coworkers and allowed him to forge lasting friendships throughout the years.

Upon retirement, Jim and Carolyn spent years traveling in their RV, spending time in Arizona and building many friendships. One of Jim's favorite pastimes was caring for his yard. He treated it like a canvas on which he could create beauty. The meticulous attention he paid to every detail made his yard a sight to behold and one year, received a Neighborhood Beautification award. Jim's warm personality endeared him to all who knew him. With a happy-go-lucky disposition, he approached life with a laid-back attitude that made every encounter with him enjoyable. Jim's easygoing nature created an atmosphere of comfort all around him. On November 4, 2023, friends and family will gather at the Speaks Suburban Chapel in Independence, Missouri for visitation services honoring the memory of James Orville Lockhart. The visitation will commence at 1:00 PM and conclude at 2:00 PM. A memorial service will follow the visitation, beginning at 2:00 PM at the same location.

He is preceded in death by his parents; Orville and Lillian Lockhart, his siblings; Raymond Lockhart, Carol Hall, Janice Shelor, Alvin Lefman, Robert Lefman, and Denise Gant, and his daughter; Sherry Steirs. He is survived by his wife; Carolyn Lockhart, his children; Dennis Lockhart (Independence), Jeff Kline (Parkville) and wife, Heather, Teresa Martin-Goebel (Blue Springs) and husband, Bill, Mike Kline (Independence) and wife, Wendy, and his beloved fur babies; Bebe and Bobo.

Surrounded by his loving family until his last breath, Jim left an indelible mark on our hearts. Though he may be gone from our sight, his spirit will continue to live on in the memories we hold dear. Jim's presence in our lives was a gift that we were privileged to receive.

In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer that you donate to the American Diabetes Association or the American Heart Association.