LaKeysha Marie Locke

In Loving Memory of LaKeysha Marie Locke

**November 7, 1974 – August 30, 2025**

On November 7, 1974, God threw a perfect strike into the hearts of Jamesetta Locke and George Neal Jr., and the world welcomed LaKeysha Marie Locke in Detroit, Michigan. From the very beginning, LaKeysha—affectionately known as “Keysha”—was a vibrant force of curiosity, compassion, and charisma.

Guided by the unwavering love of her mother and her grandparents, Tom and Luvenia Locke, and her godmother, Maxine Powell, Keysha developed a deep faith and a profound understanding of life. Her spiritual journey was central to her identity, and she remained a devoted member of every church she attended, including Word of Faith International Christian Center, Salvation Temple, and Dunamis Outreach Ministries.

Keysha’s academic path began at Barton Elementary and Ann Arbor Trail Middle School, blossoming at Cass Technical High School, where she excelled as a student, athlete, musician, and leader. Her talents were as diverse as her interests—she played violin and piano, served on the Student Council, and shined on the softball field.

Her pursuit of excellence continued at Eastern Michigan University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Public Administration and a Master of Science in Sports Management. She was a beloved Resident Advisor, earning the nickname “Mama Keysha,” and forged lifelong friendships at EMU that enriched her journey. A leader who was actively involved in her community, EMU homecomings, Black Alumni, and Cass Tech class reunions, she walked the talk.

Professionally, Keysha dedicated her life to uplifting others. She served students at Ivy Tech Community College, advocated for survivors at MSU Safe Place, and empowered future leaders at Michigan State University’s Broad College of Business. Her final role as College and Career Pathways Coordinator at Mosaic Youth Theatre of Detroit was a perfect reflection of her passion for youth, education, and the arts.

Keysha’s adventurous spirit led her to live in Indianapolis, Washington, D.C., and Juneau, Alaska, where she served as Hospitality Director at the Juneau International Airport. Once she flew home to surprise her grandmother at her birthday party. Her love for Detroit called her home, and she returned to continue her mission of service.

Stylish, spirited, and soulful, Keysha embraced life with joy and authenticity. Her favorite song, “We’re Blessed” by Fred Hammond, echoed the gratitude and grace she carried in her heart. She loved Black culture and history, Mickey Mouse, Jamaican cuisine, gardening with her grandmother (where she got her “green thumb”), dancing, and attending theatre—especially “The Wiz.” She loved spending time with her friends at get-togethers dominated by playing UNO, Connect Four, and Sequence. Playing games was her fun time! She loved to laugh and compete.

Family was her heartbeat. She shared a special bond with her mother, was a junior bridesmaid in her wedding, and cherished her grandparents deeply. Close to her brothers, Alfonzo and LaVontae, her love for them was fierce and unwavering. She poured wisdom and life lessons into them. Theirs was a three-way unbreakable bond of lifelong love and mutual support. She was a guiding light to her nieces, London and Ruby. She was proud of London’s academic accomplishments and the young lady she was becoming. A source of wisdom and laughter to all who knew her, Keysha was truly loved.

LaKeysha Marie Locke departed this life on Saturday, August 30, 2025. She was preceded in death by her beloved grandparents, Tom and Luvenia Locke. She leaves behind a legacy of love and leadership, survived by her mother Jamesetta Joseph (Alfonzo), father George Neal Jr., brothers Alfonzo Joseph, LaVontae Joseph, and George Neal III (Christina); aunt Vanessa Neal; uncles Rickeye Locke, Greyland Neal, Gregory Neal; nieces London Imane Joseph and Rubian Na’Ture; nephews Jaquan Jaggers, Jaylyn Jaggers, Marino Neal, Camden Neal; special friends, Sheila Marble, Chris White, Joyce Chech-Samuel, “The Three Musketeers”, TaSheka Sorrel, Wendy Harper, Charnita Gooden, a host of cousins, and countless friends.

Keysha’s life was a symphony of faith, family, and fierce devotion to others. Her memory will forever be a blessing.