Melbourne Roger Lockie, 90, lived and worked his entire life in the San Gabriel Valley. He grew up in Temple City, eventually attending Pasadena City College where he was named one of 75 Distinguished Alumni in 2000.
He earned his bachelor of music from the University of Redlands. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Barbara (Capt) and three children – Roger II, Randall and Rebecca (French). They were blessed with 9 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Roger was well-known as a choral director, producer and conductor. He taught 28 years at Temple City HS and served as Minister of Music and Christian Ed. at the First Baptist Church, Temple City, which he attended since 1942. Roger also enjoyed a distinguished coaching career, leading baseball and football teams at TCHS. In 1983, Roger co-founded the Music Theatre of Southern California, producing award-winning musicals. He was active in the Mustang Owners Club of California, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Kiwanis Club of Temple City, where he was named Citizen of the Year in 1998 because of the impact he had on students and community members. Roger was a life-long learner and educator, committed to developing the musical and athletic talents of others. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him. A Celebration of Life will be held Sun., Jan. 26, 2p.m., at One Hope Church located at 6019 Baldwin Ave., Temple City.