Dr. Robert (Bob) Lockhart, 77, of Fort Mill, SC, went to be with our Lord on January 16, 2021, after losing his battle with COVID-19.
Bob was born in Detroit, MI, to Lucy May Perry and Robert L. Lockhart on November 17, 1943. He graduated from Largo High School and went on to earn his undergraduate and doctoral degrees from the University of Indiana. He also earned his degree in Periodontal Surgery from the University of Missouri Kansas City and worked in private practice for many years in both the Kansas City and Indianapolis areas. A gifted teacher, Dr. Lockhart became a professor at dental schools across the country including the University of Florida and the University of Las Vegas Nevada, where he helped in establishing their dental school. He was a gentle man, full of wisdom and humility, and brought a tender bed side manner to his patients. He also proudly served our country with the Army Reserves.
Bob and his wife, Diane, with whom he celebrated 50 years of marriage, loved to travel together: a 50th Anniversary cruise to Alaska, a Mediterranean cruise with the Royal Lancers, and a trip to Hawaii all come to mind. Everywhere they lived, Bob and Diane loved to entertain. More recently, living in Vegas allowed them to visit California often for film festivals with friends.
Bob was actively engaged in the churches and communities where he lived over the years. He was proud to be a part of the Great Banquet in Zionsville, IN, and helped start these retreats at churches all over the United States. He engaged in dental mission trips to Guatemala. Most recently his time was spent volunteering at the Billy Graham Library and Samaritan's Purse. He adored his neighbors and lived out what it meant to truly "love your neighbor." Bob never missed an opportunity to support his grandchildren in their big milestones, from graduations, to theater and musical performances, to sporting events. He was a constant, loving presence in their lives and made sure to tell and send cards letting them know as much.
Bob is preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Diane. He is survived by two sons and daughters-in-law, Robert L. Lockhart II (Jennifer) and Donald A. Lockhart (Wendy), 6 precious grandchildren, and a niece, Maureen Kaufman and husband (Charles) and two great nephews.
A celebration of life officiated by his dear friend, Pastor Glen MacDonald, will be held at a later time.
Memorial donations will be given to the Billy Graham Library, through Maureen Kaufman at either: 13960 104 Ave N, Largo, FL 33774 or through Venmo at: @Maureen-Kaufman-7