Alvin “John” Pickens started his earthly journey on February 25, 1958. He was a gift to Mildred P. Gibbs and Alvin Jones in Opelousas, Louisiana. He graduated from Opelousas High School, and later received a degree in Electronics from ITT Institute. He united in Holy Matrimony to Buronica Adams on March 13, 2004.
John united with the Zion Rest Missionary Baptist Church on March 25, 2001. While at Zion Rest, John used his many gifts and talents assisting others within the church community as well as served in the following ministries: Ushers (President), Technology Team, Substance Abuse Ministry, HOPE Ministry, and he was an Austin Bible Study Fellowship student. John enjoyed listening to a variety of music. A few of his hobbies included cooking and collecting beautiful ceramic eggs.
Once Again, death has visited us and taken from our presence only for a little while, a member who served faithfully until he received his master’s call to Glory. John transitioned to eternal rest and peace on Friday, July 23, 2021.
John is preceded in death by his mother Mildred Gibbs, father Alvin Jones, maternal grandparents: Ruby and Earl Lewis, Jr; Paternal grandparents: Peter and Velma Jones.
John leaves to cherish his memories a loving wife Buronica Pickens; children: Damien L. Pickens, Metra D. Pickens Rodriguez, Jessica Lee Pickens, Latoriyan J. Freeman and Hakeem J. Rollins;
Grandchildren (14): Rajae Butler, Cameron Pickens, Endia Butler, Amani Pickens, Damien Pickens, Jr, Camden Rodriguez, Carlos Rodriguez, Nayeli G. Sanders, Chloe Mungia, Samiah R. Brown, Carter Mungia, Viviana Brown, and Nicole Brown;
Siblings: Florence (Gaston) Hensley, Alfreda Black, Harry Pickens, Larry Pickney, Arnold (Rochelle) Gibbs, Mary I. (Marvin) Washington, Johnne (Cavaline) Gibbs, and Gregory Gibbs;
Brothers-in-Law: Willie (Doris) Rollins, Ira (Sandra) Rollins, Ruben Rollins, Billy (Earlene) Rollins, Sister-in-law: Ollie Abram. Mother-in-law: Ethel V. Rollins and a Host of nieces, nephews, aunts & uncles, and many friends.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:7-8 (NIV)
A visitation for Alvin will be held Friday, July 30, 2021 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Cook-Walden/Forest Oaks Funeral Home and Memorial Park, 6300 West William Cannon Drive, Austin, TX 78749.
A funeral service will occur Saturday, July 31, 2021 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Austin Oaks Church, 4220 Monterey Oaks Blvd, Austin, TX 78749. A graveside service will occur Saturday, July 31, 2021 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, 6300 West William Cannon Drive, Austin, TX 78749.
The family of Alvin John Pickens would like to express our sincere appreciation for your prayers, cards, flowers, phone calls, texts, social media remarks, words of encouragement and all expressions of sympathy shown during this time of loss. Special thanks to Pastor & Sis. Foster, Zion Rest Church Family, Austin Oaks Church, Texas Oncology (Dr. George and his staff), Aspen Hospice Care,
and Mack & Cynthia Wigley. Our family has been encouraged and blessed by your many acts of kindness. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.cookwaldenforestoaks.com for the Pickens family.
