Betty Thomas Lockhart

In Loving Memory of

 Mrs. Betty Thomas Lockhart

December 15, 1934 – May 27, 2025

Mrs. Betty Thomas Lockhart, 90, passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, May 27, 2025, surrounded by the love of her children at her bedside.

A celebration of her remarkable life will be held on Saturday, June 7 at 2:00 p.m. at Polkton Methodist Church, a place dear to her heart. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation in the church fellowship hall following the service.

Born on December 15, 1934, in Anson County, Betty was the cherished daughter of the late Charles Wilton Thomas and Nora Russell Thomas. She was a proud graduate of Polkton High School, where she led as captain of the girls’ basketball team. Her love for the game never faded - she became an avid college basketball fan, especially of her adored Duke Blue Devils. Watching games with family and friends brought her great joy, although for Duke vs. Carolina matchups she preferred to cheer (or pace) in the privacy of her home.

Betty devoted thirty-three years of her career to Alltel before retiring. Retirement, however, didn’t slow her down. She became the beloved office manager for the MBM Twirly Girls, where she was affectionately known as “Miss Betty.” Over the next twelve years, she brightened the lives of hundreds of young girls with her warm heart, encouraging words, and that unmistakable smile. She remembered every girl’s name while proudly cheering them on - their biggest fan in every way.

Betty found beauty and peace in the everyday. She loved walking through her neighborhood, visiting with neighbors, and tending to her flowers. Her garden, filled with vibrant roses and lilies, was her pride and joy - a reflection of the grace and care she extended to all who knew her.

Above all, Betty considered her five children to be her greatest blessing. She was a devoted and loving mother - a fierce protector, a tireless provider, and the heart of her home. Her resilience, sweet spirit, and joyful nature made her a constant source of comfort. With her kind heart and warm smile she could brighten even the darkest hour. Her signature motherly touch - a gentle arm tickle or playing with your hair - had a way of casting away every fear. During the years when all of her children were still at home, Betty was her happiest, surrounded by the love and laughter that meant everything to her.

A devoted member of Polkton Methodist Church, Betty lived a life grounded in faith, kindness, and love. Her gentle nature and warm personality touched the lives of all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters, Margaret Thomas Minor and Elizabeth Thomas Tucker, her brother, Lewis Gray Thomas and her daughter, Karen Lockhart Nance.

Left to carry on her memory are her beloved children, Chip Lockhart of Polkton, Melanie Lyon (Allen) of Wadesboro, Tammy Lockhart of Wilmington and Charles Lockhart (Tina) of Wadesboro; her six grandchildren, Cameron Lockhart and Elin Lockhart, Allison Nance Harris (Ryan), Josh Nance (Angela), Melanie Nance Knight (Will) and Cayla Lockhart; and nine great-grandchildren, Nora and Annie Harris, Makyna, Brinley, Charley and Addilyn Nance, and Easton, Kaiden and Cohen Knight.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to five extraordinary women who stood beside Betty’s children to ensure she received the very best care. Patricia Harrison, Tabitha Kersey, Tasha Huntley, Pam Sturdivant and Sarah Burr cared for Betty with tenderness, dignity and devotion - offering the same love and attention they would give their own mothers. Their presence was a blessing, and their compassion will never be forgotten.

Betty’s legacy is one of joy, generosity and boundless love. She will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Anson County Animal Shelter or Anson Crisis Ministries.

The arrangements are in care of Leavitt Funeral Home and online condolences may be made at www.leavittfh.com.