“My superhero doesn’t wear a cape. He wears coveralls” 

By Autumn Lauzon 


“He’s still here” was a frequent phrase that came up when talking to Crystal Locklear about her dad, and that was evident in her tears and laughter as she shared stories about the man who was “tough as nails” but whose life reflects compassion, generosity, and an unwavering love for his family. 


Mr. Lewis Locklear, Jr. was a Vietnam War veteran and began his cancer treatments at the VA. He was eventually transferred to the Scotland Cancer Treatment Center, close to home and close to Crystal, his youngest daughter, who was working as the Practice Manager at Scotland Urgent Care. His treatments took place in 2020, which meant strict COVID restrictions, but Crystal said the Cancer Center was wonderful to him, and he loved everybody there. 


After his treatment, he would have his wife drive him by the urgent care to let Crystal know that he was finished and that he’d be waiting for her at home where she went every day after work to help take care of the man who had always taken care of her. 

“We were always taken care of. He gave everything for us. We were his world,” Crystal said. 


Even in the last months of his life, Mr. Locklear, Jr. was making sure his family would be ok without him. He made the difficult decision to stop treatments and assured his children that “everything’s in place that you need. Everything’s fine. I don’t owe anybody anything, so y’all figure it out. I raised you right.” 


During these final months, one moment that took Crystal by surprise was when her dad apologized for not knowing how to show love. She was shocked by the statement and explained to him that “we were never hungry. We always had a home, and we always had more than enough. That was love.” 


Crystal bought him a t-shirt for what ended up being his last Father’s Day. It had a giant Superman ‘S’ with ‘dad’ on it. She would always joke with him that “my superhero doesn’t wear a cape. He wears coveralls.” Every week that he had chemo treatments, he would wear his Superman t-shirt, which was very out of character for the reserved Locklear who also decided he wanted to grow a beard, just to see what it felt like. 


Crystal said she tried to persuade him to stay a few more years so they could give him an 80th birthday party, but he was insistent: “All of us has a ticket. An appointment we’re gonna keep.” Mr. Locklear was very religious and knew exactly where he was going next. Despite his battle with cancer, he remained upbeat, and every single night his prayers included “thank you for my life.” 

Mr. Locklear, Jr. has been “gone” for six years, but Crystal said she still cuts her mama’s grass with his lawnmower and goes to their house to use his tools: “you go to mama’s house and it’s like Daddy’s still here. You look and you see everything that he’s touched, so he’s still with us.” 


The extent of his generosity revealed itself after his passing, too. Crystal and her family had no idea how many people her dad had helped – mostly the vulnerable and those trying to get back on their feet – until these people revealed the kind things he had done. Mr. Locklear, Jr. felt it was his duty to take care of others and did so privately, never seeking recognition or anything in return. 


And this is part of the reason why she wanted to honor him with her gift to The Power of 26 – he was her hero, but he was a hero to others, as well. 


Crystal has been with the Scotland Health Care System for 27 years. She started in outpatient registration and is now the Professional Billing and Credentialing Manager. Although not directly working with patients, her professional role allows her to advocate for patients behind-the-scenes. She might not have a personal relationship with patients, but she fights for them in a different way: “They don’t know me. I don’t know them, but I’m reviewing their charts, billing their accounts, helping to make sure the insurance pays every dime to that patient that they should, per contract. 


We don’t know the story. We don’t know these patients, but we become connected to them. We do see that it’s a cancer patient...we are connected because we are fighting that insurance company to get this drug approved that this patient needs...and we fight on the back end, on a patient’s behalf, that they don’t even know about.” 


Her motivation for giving to The Power of 26 was because of her dad and the fact that “everybody can relate to [cancer]...whether it’s immediate family or just friends” and “we all want to preserve life as long as we can. By contributing you get them one step closer to hope that they might not have ordinarily had or another year of memories to create.” 


She said giving to The Power of 26 was a simple decision: “I’ve been here for 27 years. I love my teammates. I love my department. I love my hospital. So, I give, not only because I’m an associate, but because I 100% believe in Scotland.”

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Scotland Memorial Foundation celebrated the generosity and impact of its donors at the 23rd annual Highland Society event, an evening recognizing philanthropic partners whose support strengthens healthcare close to home. The program featured donor recognitions across giving societies, special awards, and an update on the Healing Begins Here Capital Campaign to expand the Scotland Cancer Treatment Center. “Tonight is about gratitude,” said Nancy Adcock, Chair of the Highland Society. “This gathering honors the friends and partners whose generosity fuels a healthier future for our community.” Guests enjoyed live music by Dos Eddies—the acoustic duo of Greg Miller (a Laurinburg native) and Mark Weathers—along with culinary offerings from Morrison Healthcare Food Service, desserts by The Blue Crayon Café, beautiful florals by Brady’s Flowers, bartending services by Dial Ventures, and the gracious hospitality of The Southern Dream venue. Philanthropy That Changes Lives In her remarks, Misty McMillan, Executive Director of Scotland Memorial Foundation, thanked donors for their transformational support. “Your generosity shows up in real moments of care—when a new mother receives lifesaving help at home, when a neighbor can finally hear with a second hearing aid, when a patient leaves the hospital with the medications they need to recover,” McMillan said. “Because of you, lives are changed every day.” In 2025, donor support helped the Foundation provide nearly $1.2 million in direct patient and program assistance across the region. Highland Society: 185 Members Strong, with 39 New Inductees Established in 2002, the Highland Society recognizes individuals, businesses, and organizations contributing $1,000 or more within a calendar year. In 2025, 185 donors were members of the Highland Society, collectively contributing $904,449 to support patient care, community health initiatives, and critical services. 39 first-time Highland Society members were honored during the event: Mrs. Santana Ammons Dr. Scott and Mrs. Carolyn Andrews AYM Crossfit Mr. Sully and Mrs. Erin Blair Breeden Law Office Carolina Solution, Inc. Ms. Monique Cayton Dr. Robert Chamberlain, Jr. Mr. Pat Dial & Mrs. Faline Locklear-Dial Mrs. Beth Dunbar Mr. William & Mrs. Berta Floyd Mr. Brian & Mrs. Stephanie Freeman Ms. Renee Harvey Ms. Anne Hoover Ms. Christina Hunt Hunt & Brooks Attorneys at Law Ms. Megan Jernigan Ms. Michell Jones Mr. Andy and Mrs. Ann Kurtzman Laurinburg Alumnae Chapter Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Mr. Clay Locklear Mr. Alvin & Mrs. Wilma Lowry Mr. Scott & Mrs. Crystal McDannold Morrison’s Mobile Detailing Philip Van Every Foundation Mrs. Mary Pickens Ms. Andrea Pruitt Dr. Holly Reaume Dr. Sanjay Shah Mr. Duncan J Sinclair III The Citizens Bank The Curtis Foundation, Inc. Mr. Anthony & Mrs. Catherine Vitali WABTEC Corporation Wagram Church of God Mr. Mark Ward Ardurra Group North Carolina Marilyn Wolf Charitable Fund Z Smith Reynolds Foundation “Highland Society members are the heartbeat of our mission,” said Autumn Lauzon, Donor Relations Specialist. “Your commitment ensures care remains accessible, compassionate, and close to home.” Skye Club: Lifetime Giving of $25,000+ The Foundation also recognized new inductees to its highest donor society, the Skye Club, honoring donors whose lifetime giving totals $25,000 or more. As of December 31, the Skye Club includes 120 members, with seven new inductees honored this year: Philip Van Every Foundation — a first-time partner whose $25,000 grant supports mammogram screenings, ensuring access as demand grows through the Foundation’s new mobile unit. First Capital Bank — a longtime supporter that, prior to closing, made a generous gift to support cancer patients. Ron and Carole Gibson — recognized for their personal support; Ron recently named a cancer center exam room in honor of Carole as a heartfelt Christmas gift. Dr. Deborah Hanmer — continuing her late husband’s legacy through support for the FUNd Run and the Cancer Center Expansion. Mrs. Mary Pickens — inspired by Dr. Hanmer’s example, joining as a supporter of the Cancer Center Expansion. Robeson Health Care Corporation — a steadfast partner in community health under the leadership of Mr. Tim Hall. Mr. Jay and Mrs. Julieann Todd — celebrated for their longstanding support; Jay is past Chair of the Foundation Board and an advocate for wellness initiatives. “Congratulations on achieving this milestone,” McMillan said. “On behalf of the many lives you’ve touched—thank you.” Fulton–Tornow Society: Leaving a Legacy The Fulton–Tornow Society, established in 2007 and named for the late Mr. Hewitt Fulton and Mrs. Martha McNair Tornow, recognizes donors who have made planned giving commitments to the Foundation. Members acknowledged during the program were listed in the event materials. 2025 Foundation Awards Business of the Year — 2025: Carolina Solution, Inc. was recognized as the Business of the Year for their rapidly expanding partnership over the last few years. Owner, Michelle Ellerbe first connected with us when we learned she taught Zumba and invited her to help lead activities at the FUNd Run. Not only did she bring incredible energy to the event, she immediately stepped forward as a business sponsor. When we launched our Bling Out Breast Cancer Competition, she as a breast cancer survivor and her company joined enthusiastically - mobilizing an impressive network of supporters and raising over $5,000, ultimately winning the competition. Her commitment didn't stop there. After attending one of our Foundation meet-and-greet sessions last year, she deepened her involvement even further by securing a head table at the Ritz as a White Glove sponsor, demonstrating her belief in our mission and her dedication to our community. Friend of the Foundation — 2025: This award recognizes an individual who supports the Foundation in countless ways throughout the year - someone who shows up, speaks up, and lifts up our mission as a true ambassador. Beacham McDougald is known by almost everyone, if not personally, then by his posts on Facebook. Chances are you have followed his journey, his courage, his resilience, his humor, and his honesty as he's navigated the challenges of cancer. Through every high and low, one things has remained absolutely clear - his deep love and unwavering support for Scotland Health. Beacham's generosity reaches far beyond social media posts. It shows in his actions, his advocacy, and in his belief in the work we do. He inspires others, he champions our mission, and he reminds us what the power of community truly looks like. Healing Begins Here: Campaign Announcement & Steering Committee Recognition The Foundation invited attendees to join the Healing Begins Here Capital Campaign to expand and renovate the Scotland Cancer Treatment Center—a $10 million project with a $2 million community goal. Since the quiet phase began in August, the Capital Campaign Steering Committee—Carol McCall, Wayne Wike, Jim Mason, Danny Caddell, Paul Brooks, Faline LocklearDial, and Sandra Wilkes—has helped raise more than $900,000 through outreach, relationship-building, and donor engagement. “Our region’s need is urgent—patient volume has grown exponentially since the Center opened,” McMillan said. “This campaign ensures every patient is welcomed with dignity, privacy, and timely care—right here at home.” Planned enhancements include: A larger, safer waiting area and onsite lab draws to reduce travel and wait times 25 infusion chairs with private treatment bays and additional exam rooms to reduce delays Dedicated spaces for genetics, nutrition, and education A nourishment area and private restroom within the infusion area 24 additional parking spaces for easier, weather-safe access A dedicated private exit to protect dignity on the hardest days Lead donors who have made commitments to support Healing Begins Here include: Mrs. Nancy Adcock Dr. Scott & Mrs. Carolyn Andrews Mr. Bruce and Mrs. Katilda Blackmon Ms. Myra W. Bodenhamer Paul & Pauline Brooks Family Mr. David & Mrs. Sandra Burns Mr. Danny & Mrs. Carolina Caddell Mr. Mike and Mrs. Carol Coughenour Dr. Judith G. Curtis Mr. Bob & Mrs. Kirsten Dean Mr. Pat Dial & Mrs. Faline Locklear Dial Mrs. Elizabeth Dunbar The Honorable Craig & Mrs. Patricia Ellis Mr. William & Mrs. Berta Floyd Mr. Robert & Mrs. Martha Floyd Mr. S. Hewitt & Mrs. Martha Fulton III Mr. Ron & Mrs. Carole Gibson Mr. Robert Gordon Mr. James and Mrs. Claire Graham Dr. Deborah Hanmer Mr. David & Mrs. Ellen Harling Mr. Joel & Mrs. Susan Hartwell Hasty Realty Mrs. Donna Hicks Mr. Bill & Mrs. Pam Hill, Jr. Ms. Anne Hoover The Honorable John & Mrs. Laura Horne, Jr. Dr. H.H. and Mrs. Rebecca Hughes, III Hon Christopher Rhue and Dr. Jennifer Isenhour Jane Graham McKay & Katherine Hill McKay Endowment Fund Mrs. Karen G. Jenkins Mr. Allen & Mrs. Meg Johnson Dr. Olujide & Dr. Gani Lawal C.W. And Dorothy G. Love Foundation Lumbee Guaranty Bank Dr. Frederick & Mrs. Lynn Mabry, Jr. Mr. James & Mrs. Lynn Mason III Mrs. Lynn Massey Mrs. Carol McCall McCulloch England Architects Mr. Beacham and Mrs. Lynn McDougald Mr. Robert and Mrs. Joyce McDow Mr. Jeff & Mrs. Leigh-Ann McKay Mr. Allen & Mrs. Jane McLaurin Mr. Steven & Mrs. Allison McLean Mr. Bill and Mrs. Misty McMillan Nic’s Pik Kwik – Mr. Ken and Mrs. Carol Nichols and Mr. Dean and Mrs. Candy Nichols Mrs. Mary Pickens Mr. David and Mrs. Jeannie Pope Mr. Reg & Mrs. Pat Poteat Mr. Matthew & Mrs. Melanie Pracht Mr. William R. & Mrs. Terri Purcell, II Ms. Janelle Rhye Robeson Community College Foundation Scotland Health Care System Auxiliary Mr. Michael & Mrs. Melissa Singler Mr. Chip & Mrs. Evelyn Shytle Mr. Lucien and Mrs. Patricia St. Onge The Curtis Foundation, Inc. Dr. Stewart & Mrs. Carol Thomas Mr. Jay & Mrs. Julieann Todd Mr. Mark Ward and Family Mr. Wayne & Mrs. Debbie Wike Dr. Jeremy & Mrs. Sandra Wilkes Mr. Bradley & Mrs. Sarah Williams Mr. John & Mrs. Ruby Williamson Mr. Jim & Mrs. Frances Willis Mr. Andrew & Mrs. Emily Womble Mr. Greg Wood and Ms. Janet Smith The Foundation also recognized Distinguished Donors enrolled in annual giving plans: Service Thread, McCulloch England Architects, Scottish Pines Rehabilitation and Nursing, and Scotland Health Auxiliary. Misty McMillan gave special appreciation to Outreach Committee Chair Nancy Adcock for her service of 18 years, and to Foundation staff Autumn Lauzon, Ashley Hunt, and Chanel Carmichael for their work throughout the year.
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