John Paul Locke, age 57, of Weaver, Alabama, passed away at his home on Friday, November 6, 2026.
Born on July 9, 1969, to Paul W. Locke, Jr. and Nancy Steele Locke, John graduated from Jacksonville High School with the Class of 1987.
During his high school years, he served as a trainer. In 1989, he entered the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) program at Gadsden State Community College, beginning a career devoted to helping others.
John worked as a paramedic in Alabama and west Georgia, serving with the Cleburne County Rescue Squad and Oxford Rescue Squad. He also volunteered with the Quad Cities Volunteer Fire Department. When health challenges led him to step away from emergency medical services, he began a new chapter as the owner of Tallapoosa Gun & Pawn in Tallapoosa, Georgia.
John and his beloved wife, Belinda, spent much of their adult lives serving their communities—John as a paramedic and EMT, and Belinda as an E911 dispatcher. Helping others was an important part of the life they shared.
John was a devoted supporter of the Jacksonville State University Gamecocks, and he and Belinda shared a deep love for Auburn football. Whether watching on television or cheering from the stands, they loved rooting for their Auburn Tigers. War Eagle! Although John and Belinda did not have children of their own; their nieces and the children and grandchildren of their friends held a special place in their hearts. They treasured time spent with them. At Christmas, John brought joy to others by dressing as Santa Claus and spreading Christmas cheer near and far. Those happy moments remain cherished memories for the families whose holidays he brightened.
John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Belinda Kay Arrington Locke; his father, Paul W. Locke, Jr.; his mother, Nancy Steele Locke; and his sister, Donna Kay Locke Tracy.
He is survived by his nieces, Abby Tracy and Maggie Tracy; two aunts; and numerous cousins and friends who will cherish his memory.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Oxford Memorial Gardens (formerly Oxford City Cemetery), 100 McKibbon Street, Oxford, AL 36203. Family and friends are welcome to gather, share memories, and celebrate John’s life.
In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s memory may be made to the Quad Cities Volunteer Fire Department, continuing his legacy of service to others.
