Natalie E. Lock, born October 16, 1927, passed away peacefully at home with her children by her side, in Springfield, Missouri, on Friday, May 27, 2022, at the age of 94.
Natalie was born at home on the farm in Ash Grove, Missouri. The third of seven children born to Nathaniel and Idella Mannering. Natalie graduated from Miller High School in 1945 and shortly thereafter married her high school sweetheart, Junior Barker. That marriage was cut short by Junior's untimely passing.
As a young widow, Natalie sought employment in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and met the love of her life, Edwin (Ed) Charles Lock. Ed's Army career took them to a variety of places, including but not limited to Chateauroux, France, Killeen, Texas, Cato-Meridian and Syracuse, New York, and several locations in Missouri. Ed and Natalie were married forty-eight years and that marriage was blessed with four children, two boys and two girls.
Natalie is survived by her son, Michael Lock (wife, Lynne); daughter, Janice Lee; son, David Lock; daughter, Melissa Deckard (husband, Chuck); brother, Dennis Mannering (wife Wendy); sister, Sharron Dingeldein (husband, Steve); seven grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews and other extended family members, including pets. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ed, brothers, George and Ernest Mannering, and sisters, Jeanie Frazier and Joyce Eskow.
Throughout her life she always supported her kids in their own life experiences and was always a great and valued mentor. Cheerleader, Girl Scout leader, Cub Scout Den Mother, proud attendee of kids'/grandkids' events. Most recently, she was volunteering for C.A.R.E. (Castaway Animals Rescue Effort), she wore many hats! She was a giver of love and all who knew her can attest to that. Natalie especially loved gospel music and was a very proud member of Wesley United Methodist Church.
Natalie was first and foremost a wife, mother, and grandmother. Her love and devotion to her family was unparalleled. She was always there for whatever was needed, be it a hug, a listening ear, a word of encouragement, or a warm smile. Her vivacity and love of life was contagious and her passing has left a void in the lives of all who knew and loved her. She will always live on within our hearts and we will do our best to make her proud and lead by example. We love you Mom/Grandma.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Castaway Animal Rescue Effort (C.A.R.E.), Intrepid Hospice, or other charity of the donor's choice.
Visitation will be held from 2:00 - 4:00 PM on Sunday, June 5, 2022 at Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home. Graveside Service will be at 11:00 AM on Monday, June 6 in Missouri Veterans Cemetery.
A brief reception will be held at Wesley United Methodist Church, 922 West Republic Road, following the services.