Brother William Lockard, 1928 - 2013
Brother William Lockard, 84, monk of the Monastery of the Holy Spirit died peacefully in the monastery infirmary after a long illness. He died on Friday January 25th with his monastic brothers at his side.
Born on October 15, 1928, William grew up in Harrison, New Jersey. His parents were Thomas Lockard and Winifred Murray-Lockard. He was baptized at Holy Cross Church in Harrison. After graduating from Harrison High School William enlisted in the United States Army in October 1946. During his service in the Korean War, William was awarded the Korean Service Medal with two bronze service stars and an Army of Occupation Medal (Japan). He was reassigned from active combat in Korea to the 97th Army Band as an instructor and later discharged from the Army in November 1951. Following his military discharge, as an accomplished musician, William played saxophone in bands touring the United States for eight years.
Responding to a call to religious life, On August 22, 1971, William was received into the Order of Friars Minor at Saint Francis Friary in Brookline, Massachusetts. On August 26, 1972, he was professed in simple vows. In 1975, he professed solemn vows during his ministry in Bolivia, South America.
Feeling the call to a deeper life of prayer in a Cistercian monastery, and with the approval of the Franciscan Friars provincial, Brother William came to Our Lady of the Holy Spirit Monastery in July, 1987 for a two-month discernment. Wishing to transfer to the Cistercian order, William was under the direction of Fr. Francis Michael Stiteler (the monastery's present abbot) for three years. William professed solemn vows as a Cistercian on December 8, 1990 with Abbot Bernard Johnson presiding.
Both of Brother William's siblings are deceased. He has 4 nephews, and 3 nieces.
In addition to daily manual work, Brother William served the monastic community through his warm hospitality to visitors and retreatants. Brother William encouraged others to pray through his words and example.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.