Charles "Charlie" Franklin Lockhart

Charles “Charlie” Franklin Lockhart, 70, of West Fork, Arkansas, passed away peacefully and surrounded by family on June 12, 2025, in the region he called home his entire life. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, Charlie was a pillar of strength, kindness, and quiet wisdom.

Born on March 9, 1955, in Fayetteville to Juanita and Kenneth Lockhart, Charlie grew up surrounded by family, faith, and a deep connection to the land. A lifelong farmer and proud cattle rancher, he spent his days working with his hands and his heart. He was known throughout the community as one of the hardest-working and most respectable men around. In addition to his work on the farm, he was a talented woodworker — able to build or repair just about anything.

Charlie was preceded in death by his parents, Juanita and Kenneth Lockhart, and his brothers Chester “Chet” Lockhart and Carl “Beanie” Lockhart.

He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Diane Lockhart, whose love and partnership defined his life. Together, they raised three daughters who adored him and knew him as “Daddy”: Joni Mosher and husband Ron Mosher of West Fork, Jennifer Brinsfield and husband Jason Brinsfield of Vilonia, and Carla Slaughter and husband Scott Slaughter of West Fork, as well as Rocky Corder of Heber Springs.

Charlie also leaves behind his siblings Roger Lockhart, Keneita Spencer, Carol “Curl” Hulse; his grandchildren Ashley Lockhart, Nicholas Lockhart, Blake Corder, Dustin Mosher, Logan Brinsfield, Tristan Brinsfield, and Colt Slaughter; and his great-grandchildren Avia Mosher and Walker Mosher.

To know Charlie was to love him. Those who did will remember his quick wit, humble nature, and the way he carried himself with quiet honor. He was a man of his word, a faithful steward of his land, and a tireless provider for those he loved. Whether lending a hand, sharing a story, or offering wisdom, Charlie could always be counted on.

You can say his name in any surrounding state, and chances are, someone will know him. That’s the kind of legacy he leaves — built not on social media, but on good faith, solid handshakes, and a lifetime of meaningful connections. He loved his wife and girls and was a true family man. Charlie was a proud Lockhart, and he leaves behind big boots to fill.

He will be deeply missed, but his family will always know where to find him: in a good glass of sweet tea, the scent of freshly cut hay, the hum of a tractor, a quiet front porch evening, or in the firm, honorable handshake of a stranger. Charlie was a legendary, heroic, well-respected man who lived a long, full life who will be missed tremendously.

Graveside service will be held Monday, June 16, 2025 - 10:00 A.M. at the McDonald Cemetery.