Samella Locke

August 22, 1952 - July 16, 2021

Samella Locke began her eternal rest, lovingly surrounded by her husband and children, on Friday, July 16, 2021. A visitation will be held from 10:00 - 11:00 AM with Funeral Services beginning at 11:00 AM Friday, July 30, 2021, at Maple Hill Funeral Home. Burial will follow in the Maple Hill Cemetery. A Repass will be held following services at the Merriam Community Center. Born Samella Parker, she graced this world August 22, 1952. She was the youngest of ten children born to Samella Shepard and Frank Parker in Kansas City, MO. When she was very young, the family moved to Kansas City, KS and her mother remarried to Columbus Johnson. They raised Samella and her siblings who remained at home. She graduated from Wyandotte High School in 1971. Samella worked at the Greater KC Epileptic League, Forum Cafe, Sirloin Stockade, and the JC Penney distribution center. She began working at Deluxe Check Printers in 1979 and stayed 32 years, until her retirement in 2011. On April 18, 1970, Samella married Arthur Locke, Jr. Their 51 year union is a beautiful testament to LOVE, commitment, and true companionship. Together they raised three children, Tshombe, Arlise, and Desmond. Samella loved gathering with family, for any and all occasions, or just because. Everything she cooked was delicious. No matter how many times she made a pineapple upside-down cake or a raisin cream pie, it was always a delight. She also loved to travel. She and Arthur enjoyed many trips together, often with other family members, and a good time was always had. We will miss her upbeat giving spirit and how she always taught with love… and the way she sure would let you know what's on her mind. Samella’s parents, three brothers, Tommy, George, and Harry; half brother Gary; and two sisters Geraldine and MC - Maria Cecelia; have passed on before her. Samella is survived by her husband and children, as well as four grandchildren, Tanea, Naisha, Nilah, and JeVon. Grandma’s girls brought her so much joy, and she loved it when she finally got a grandson. Samella also leaves a brother, Frank; three sisters, Lula, Helen, and Jeffrey; three half sisters, Annette Bly, Patricia Clark, and Cheryl Parker; brother in law, Robert Godfrey Womack; and six sisters in law, Brenda, Linda, Joyce, Audrey, Patricia, and Mary. Auntie Samella / Aunt Sam has dozens of adoring nieces and nephews, many who will remember her Bag of Magic — she’d say “reach in and get you one, don’t look though”. Samella will also be missed by so many other relatives and friends who love her dearly.