Stephen P. Lockard

Stephen P. Lockard, 81, of Lafayette, Indiana, passed away peacefully at home on November 7, 2025. Born on October 9, 1944, in Lafayette, to the late Alfonso A. and Velma Lockard, Stephen was a distinguished individual whose life was marked by service, dedication to family, and a profound love for his community.

Stephen grew up a member of St. Boniface parish, graduating from the 8th grade in 1958. A 1962 graduate of Central Catholic High School, he was actively involved in baseball, choir, and football, showcasing his outgoing and vibrant personality. After high school, he attended business school, and in 1965, was drafted into the U.S. Army. He served as a Catholic Chaplain's assistant with the 1st Cavalry Division during a tour of duty in Vietnam from 1966 to 1967. His commitment to his country remained a point of pride throughout his life.

Following his military service, Stephen enriched the lives of many through his diverse career and interests. A devoted musician, he joyfully shared his love of music with all who knew him. Through the 1970s and early 1980’s, he was a member of the Tippecanotes, a barbershop chorus, as well as The Tonsilklackers, a barbershop quartet, and he directed the Sweet Adelines, a barbershop women’s chorus. His professional journey began with The Lorillard Tobacco Company as a tobacco distributor, followed by a notable tenure at J.C. Penney in the men's department beginning at the downtown Lafayette location then moving to the Tippecanoe Mall, where he expertly assisted local men in finding their perfect suits. He began his second career by earning a CDL and driving buses for the cities of Indianapolis and Lafayette. He used this experience to become a charter bus driver working for both Imperial Travel and Illini Swallow. He had the pleasure of transporting not only tour groups around the country, but also many collegiate sports teams, high school extracurricular groups, and others.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Stephen was a passionate gardener, cultivating a vast garden in his backyard, which was a reflection of his nurturing spirit. He shared his home with several beloved Jack Russell terriers, which brought him great joy and companionship. A people person by nature, Stephen was known for his talkative demeanor and captivating storytelling, creating lasting memories with all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Stephen took immense pride in his accomplishments, particularly his service to his country and the love he held for his family. He is survived by his ex-wife, Phyllis Lockard; children, Vince (Anne) Lockard of Indianapolis, IN, Erik (Kelly) Lockard of Elgin, IL, Sarah (Brian) Sims of Lafayette, IN, and Jason (Sylvie) Lockard of Bloomington, IN; grandchildren, Matt, Leigh, Ethan, Andrew, Kyle, John, Rose, Lydia, Logen, Owen; great-grandchildren Leo, and Ella; and niece and nephew, Michael Lockard and Kimberle Lockard. He was preceded in death by his brother, Michael Lockard.

Visitation will be held on November 20, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Hahn-Groeber Funeral Home in Lafayette, IN. A second visitation is planned for November 21, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Lafayette, followed by a Mass at the same location at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to, Disabled American Veterans- 575 N. Pennsylvania St. Rm. 324, Indianapolis, IN 46204. Interment will follow at Tippecanoe Memory Gardens with Veterans honors. Hahn-Groeber Funeral Home is honored to serve the Lockard family. Please leave memories and condolences at hahngroeberfuneralhome.com