On August 26, 2010, the City of Garland officially dedicated the Goldie Locke Community Meeting Room inside the Duckworth Utility Services Building in Downtown Garland.
 
The new meeting space is named in honor of a long-time community leader.  Goldie Irene Locke (1937-2008) devoted almost three decades to building community in Garland with her contribution of wisdom, knowledge and countless volunteer hours. She served the City of Garland, the Garland Independent School District, Parkland Hospital and numerous community and civic organizations. In 1984, she organized and became the founding president of the Garland Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. Because Ms. Locke's tremendous sense of community fostered opportunity and justice for all citizens, the Garland City Council in partnership with the Executive Members of the Garland NAACP named the room in her honor.
 
During the dedication ceremony, Garland Mayor Ronald E. Jones referred to Ms. Locke as a courageous community activist.  “Scripture says that some men’s works go before them and some men’s works come after them.  Goldie’s good works and reputation went before and will linger on well into the future,” said Mayor Jones.
 
Garland NAACP President B.J. Williams turned to the lyrics of the song “The Impossible Dream” to describe Ms. Locke and her impact to the community she served.  “This was her quest,” said Mr. Williams, “to fight for the right without question or pause. …  And the world and the City of Garland will be better for this.”
 
Ms. Locke’s niece, Denise Richards, spoke of how her aunt loved her family, friends, community and church.   Ms. Richards said of Ms Locke, “she didn’t take on any task in a small way.  Her commitment was strong and she instilled that in her family as well.”
 
The Goldie Locke Community Meeting Room is located on the lower level of the Duckworth Building at 217 N. Fifth Street.  The room has a capacity of up to 100 people and includes kitchen facilities, tables, chairs and audio/video capabilities. To find out more about reservations and room usage rules, contact Rene Dowl at 972-205-2670 or Carol Bentzlin 972-205-2653.
 

Goldie Locke's nephew and niece, Robert Locke, Jr. and Denise Richards, admire the photograph and plaque honoring Ms. Locke's service to the Garland community.