Gracie Mae Locklear, 14, of Hallsboro, North Carolina, passed away on February 16, 2026.

Born on April 4, 2011 in Whiteville, NC, Gracie was a freshman at Columbus Career College Academy. She was a bright and active young lady who filled her days with things she loved most. Gracie played softball most of her life and enjoyed being on the field. Last year, she was proud to become a member of the Beta Club. Gracie loved to sing, skate, and spend time outdoors rabbit hunting. Each summer, she looked forward to attending church camp, where she made memories and friendships that meant so much to her.

She had a special love for animals. Her cat, Dolly; her crab, Mombo; her dogs; and the family fish, Bubbles, all held a special place in her heart.

Left to cherish Gracie's memory are her mother, Kayla McKee; her stepfather Jack McKee; her brother, Alex Locklear; her stepbrother, Logan McKee; her maternal grandparents, Kerry and Shirley Williford; her maternal great-grandmother, Linda Welty; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who loved her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandmother, Diane Lewis Williford;  her maternal great-grandfather, John Williford; her maternal great-grandfather, Don Welty; and her paternal great-grandmother, Patsy Tayloe.

The family will be receiving friends and relatives at the home of Kerry and Shirley Williford at 39 Lewis Rd Delco, NC 28436.

The family will receive friends at 10:30 AM Friday at Delco SDA Church before the service.

Funeral services will be at 12:00 noon Friday February 27, 2026 at Delco Seventh Day Advent Church. Reverend Wayne Standenburg will officiate and burial will follow at the Williford Family Cemetery.

Services are entrusted to Harrell's Funeral Home of Burgaw, North Carolina.

The family kindly requests that those attending services wear pink in honor of Gracie, as it was her favorite color.