Clifford Allen Locke Sr., lovingly known to many as Poot, was a gifted singer, dynamic performer, and treasured pillar of the community, took his final bow on February 22, 2026, at the age of 69. Born January 20, 1957, in Sharon, Pennsylvania, to the union of Willie Mae Drummond-Harris and Willie Blue, Sr., Cliff was raised with love, faith, and a foundation that would shape the man and musician he became.

A proud graduate of Farrell Area High School, Class of 1975, he carried his hometown roots with him wherever the music led. From the earliest days of singing in church choirs, it was clear that music was not merely something Cliff did - it was who he was. His voice, rich with emotion and conviction, had the rare ability to stir souls. Whether lifting hymns in worship or commanding a stage with powerful ballads, Cliff sang with a sincerity that transcended genre and generation.

Throughout his musical journey, Poot graced countless venues and events, sharing the stage with both local talents and international artists. His repertoire was as diverse as it was heartfelt — gospel, R&B, jazz, classical, contemporary — each note delivered with authenticity, depth, and unmistakable soul. Audiences didn’t just hear him sing; they felt him. Yet beyond the spotlight, Cliff’s greatest performance was the life he lived. When not touring or ministering through song, Cliff worked diligently at various restaurants and Westinghouse, embodying humility and a tireless work ethic.

A man of unwavering faith and boundless generosity, Clifford believed deeply in music’s power to heal and unite. He faithfully served as a member of Valley Baptist Church and previously dedicated his gifts to Community Missionary Baptist Church and New Hope Ministries, where he directed and taught choirs, shaping voices and spirits alike. He was a mentor to young artists, a champion of aspiring singers, and a steady encouragement to anyone daring to follow their dream.

He leaves to cherish his harmony and memory: his beloved mother, Willie Mae Drummond-Harris; devoted sons, Nijya (Michelle Redmond) Justice, Jason Page, Sr., and Clifford (Alexis) Locke Jr.; and numerous cherished grandchildren who were the rhythm of his heart.

His legacy is embedded in the hearts of his loving siblings Willie, Jr. (Bertha) Blue of Sharon; Benjamin (Laura) Blue of Hermitage; Norman (Funder) Blue; Patricia Pierce of Farrell; Melvin Locke, Sr. of Farrell; Rochelle Locke (James Rutledge) of Youngstown, Ohio; and Rev. Clifferette (Jeffery) Dunlap of Hermitage, Crystal Blue (Tony) of North Las Vegas, NV, Hyldia (Johnny) Smith of Clarkton, NC; along with a host of nieces, nephews,.

His loving memory is also embraced by his fiancée Patricia Dessaw and dear friends which include Rodney Ragster, Tim Scanga, the Total Package Band, Ralph Smith, Rev. James Hosey, Tutti Ford, fellow musicians, devoted fans, and countless loved ones who will forever carry his song within them.

He was welcomed into eternal glory by his father, Willie Blue, Sr.; the fathers who reared him, Clifton Locke, Jr. and Jimmy Harris, Jr.; grandparents, Matthew Drummond, Ruth Drummond and Clara Locke; siblings Willette “Miss Honey” Hosey, Janice Jean Flint, Milton Blue, Earl Robinson, Henry Lee Robinson, Barbara L. Blue Harrold, and Naomi Melvin; and beloved nephews, Roderick Norris and William (LB) Jones.

Though the final note has been sung and the curtain gently closed, the melody of Cliff’s life will echo endlessly - in sanctuaries, on stages, in quiet moments of remembrance, and in every heart he ever touched. His voice may rest, but his music lives on. Clifford, aka Poot, will be remembered for his strength, resilience, and commitment to his family and community.

Friends and family will gather to celebrate Clifford's life on Friday, March 6, 2026, at Valley Baptist Church, 500 Sharon- New Castle Road, Farrell with 10:00 AM public calling hours, followed by the Celebration of Life services at 11:00 AM with Pastor T. James Harrison as the officiant. Following the committal ceremony, Clifford will be laid to rest at the Hillcrest Memorial Park in Hermitage, PA.

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Clifford Allen Locke Sr. elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 1059 Hamilton Ave, Farrell, PA 724.983.1523