In Loving Memory of a Hellraiser with a Heart: Carl Lockley (“CJ”), 39, April 22, 1985–March 31, 2025 It is with heavy hearts, oil-stained hands, and slightly offended ears that we announce the passing of Carl John Lockley (“CJ”), 39, who departed this world far too soon on March 31, 2025. Though his body is gone, his voice—loud, opinionated, and often wildly inappropriate—still echoes in the hearts and ears of those who loved him.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Jimmy and Sue Ferris, who no doubt greeted him on the other side with open arms, a cold drink, and maybe a raised eyebrow or two. He leaves behind a loving wife, Ashtan Hill, who somehow managed to match his fire; his mother, Lisa Ferris-Stokes; his siblings Stephanie Williamson, Brandon Stokes, and Chance Stokes, with whom he shared connections in ways that were uniquely theirs; his cousin, John McDonald (“Red”), whom he saw and respected as a brother; and last but certainly not least, his devoted dog, Baby Bo, who’s still waiting by the door for the next truck ride around town.
A fiercely intelligent, witty, and stubborn man, Carl was the kind of guy who could fix your engine, challenge your thinking, and roast you mercilessly—usually all before lunch. He was a mechanic by trade, but a storyteller, deep thinker, and rebel at heart. If you were lucky enough to know him, you were never bored. Offended? Probably. But never bored. He had a love for life that was as raw and unfiltered as he was. His greatest joys were found with grease on his hands, wind in his face, and an open road ahead.
Carl didn’t believe in half-assing anything—he fullassed life, every single messy, hilarious, passionate second of it. He will be missed beyond words, but remembered in every roar of an engine, every off-color joke, and every rebellious spark in someone’s eye.
The family will not be holding any formal services, and instead encourages everyone to celebrate Carl’s life in whatever way feels most meaningful to them. However, they gathered to share in one of Carl’s favorite pastimes at The Detour in Midland, Texas on April 12, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. and warmly welcomes anyone who would like to join.
