Dorothy Locke

Dorothy Pearl Locke

Dorothy was born on January 22, 1929 in Knoxville, Tennessee. She was the eldest to five siblings and was born to Beatrice Flenoid and RT Shelton. She decided to take this journey with the Lord at an early age and solidified that by being baptized by Rev. Burge at 10 years old. She spent her childhood in Knoxville enjoying time with her aunts and remaining focused on her studies. Her stellar intellect and focus led her to be promoted up a grade. She graduated at the age of 17 years from Austin High School in Knoxville in the class of 1946. Upon her completion she attended Booker T. Washington Business College were she studied Business Administration. 

Dorothy maintained employment in the black recreational center, a black insurance agency and a black doctors office as a receptionist as after school and summer jobs during high school. Her first job in her career field was as a Community Organizer for Portage County Community Action Agency, were she remained for 10 years. She climbed in positions and ended her career there as a administrative assistant. She gave many years of service to nonprofit work. 

Dorothy lived in many locations in Ohio once she moved north but has been settled in Lorain, Ohio since 1986. While living in Lorain she found a church home at Jones Chapel AME Elyria where she adored her church family. Mrs. Locke was an active member serving on the stewardess board and was active in the missionary society until her health limited her. It brought her joy to watch others in her community grow and therefore she supported many community organizations that provided scholarships. She enjoyed remaining informed and would keep her television tuned to political news. She was a phenomenal baker and made some of the best desserts. Her happiest moments were spent with her friends and family. 

Dorothy is preceded in death by her mother Beatrice Flenoid, step-father Julius Flenoid, father RT Shelton and Step-mother Edith Shelton. Brother Willis, Sister Geraldine, Brother John, Brother James and Brother Calvin. Her Daughter Cheryl and sons Albert Jr. and Anthony also preceded her. Lastly, Dorothy is preceded by her beloved husband of 40 years William T. Locke. 

She is survived by her daughter Janice Averett and son Warren Averett. Her Grandaughter “Daughter” Leslie Cannon (& Darius).  Grandchildren Kimberly Averett, Jazzmetrius Averett, Alexshawn Averett, Lana Hunt, Lynn Hunt, Julius Jamerson, Sarita Jones, Sara McCann, Latasha Averett, Brandon Averett, Lamont Averett, Brandi Averett, Alexandria Averett. Great Grandchildren Giovanni Santiago, Diamond Averett, Chantille Jackson, Charnelle Cannon, Mylo Smiley. She is also survived by her pride and joy, her Great-Great grandchildren Liam Jackson, Charleigh Cannon, Gianna Santiago & Raeghan Butler; sister, Camilia Shelton, and friends of the family to include the Locke, Howard, Bourne, Evans, and the Cherry Street Church of GOD members.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the William T. & Dorothy P. Locke Family Fund through Community Foundation. Dorothy preferred that a funeral not be held but that all loved ones hold on to the memories and connections during her well-lived life.