To the Editor,

The community of Pembroke is truly a better place because of Mr. Curt Locklear Sr. He was a friend to thousands and loved by so many. Many people who work in construction got their first work tools from Pembroke Hardware. They also got their first credit from him if they didn’t have the money to buy the tool.

Mr. Curt always gave a person an honest chance and with his help, he led them to a better life. He also helped many senior citizens who are on a fixed income and local farmers.

In both of the stores he had his desk with an extra chair, which he always invited you to sit down and talk. I know when my family all died so suddenly, I would go in there and talk to him. He told me to “stand proud and that my father never taught me to quit. That my most important goal should be to make it to heaven so I could be with them once again.”

He was a dedicated husband and loving father of 10 children. When his children were not in school, they were working at Pembroke Hardware. You couldn’t get 10 feet inside the store before someone said, “Can I help you?”

Mr. Curt could sit there and laugh with you or at you. He could also come up with brilliant ideas. His wife worked right there beside him and was his best friend. He was a mentor for so many.

There are so many people for whom Mr. Curt’s random acts of kindness changed their lives for the better.

So, to Mr. Curt and his beloved family, may I say thank you for sharing your father, your husband and your friend with us and thank you Mr. Curt. May we all look forward to the day we see you once again.

Vinita “Cookie” Maynor-Clark

Pembroke