Maverick Locklear

We here at The RealWV didn’t know young Maverick Locklear. But when we saw his name, it caught our attention.

Maverick Grey Locklear…now that’s a name.

Maverick passed away two weeks ago, at just seven-years-old. Most of us here at RealWV are the parents of young children, and it’s impossible to fathom what Maverick’s family is feeling now. But we want to Locklear family to know that they are not alone. There is a whole mighty state standing around them. And while we can’t take away the pain of Maverick’s loss, we can certainly do our part to keep his memory alive.

Below is Maverick’s obituary, courtesy of the Handley Funeral Home:

Maverick Grey Locklear, 7, of Julian, WV passed away Saturday, January 31, 2026 at Cabell Huntington Hospital surrounded by his family.

Maverick had a rare gift for making everyone smile and laugh. He spread joy that was truly contagious and never faded. He naturally became the heart of every room he entered. He was known by many and loved by all. His hobbies included music, movies, playing in the water, and long walks in warm weather. 

Left to cherish Maverick’s memory are his parents, Dale and Victoria Locklear, and his siblings, Myles, Mayzin, Maddison, and Elisabeth Locklear of Julian, WV; grandparents, Angela and Johnny Conn, Tony Angel, Iris Cline, and Quincey Locklear; great-grandparents, Cheryl and Thomas Miller and Michael Angel; and uncles, Larry Runion and Dakota Adkins; and aunts, Lara Adkins and Amber Locklear.

Preceding him in death are his great-grandmother, Mae Belle (Sue) Angel, and his aunt, Teresa Angel. 

For being the “Maverick” that we’re sure he was, we are humbled to name Maverick Locklear as the certified Real West Virginia of the week.

Have someone you’d like to nominate? Email us at News@therealwv.com.