Mr. Pickens was born on September 25, 1942 in Jackson, TN, the son of the late Herman Lee and Nellie Crawford Pickens.
He received his undergraduate degree from Union University and attended Florida State University where he received his Master’s degree.
Mr. Pickens was retired as the executive director of JACOA. He was lovingly known by his family Pe – Paw.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Scarlett Pickens Johnston; his sisters; Doris Ruth Pickens and Shirley Livingston; and his brother, Herman Leon Pickens.
He is survived by his wife, Paula Faye Stewart Pickens; two sons, Jody Pickens (Linsey) and Phillip Pickens (Shellie); step children, Ragon Hobbs (Cory), and Clint Cox; his son-in-law, Greg Johnston; grandchildren, Claire and Rachel Johnston, Madison Webb, Emmie Pickens, Stone Pickens, Sarah Tucker Pickens, Elizabeth Pickens; Step Grandchildren, Max and Mallory Hobbs.
“Joe will be missed by many because of his wit and love of people.” He enjoyed his various coffee groups and considered Grant and Betsy Edwards and their staff at Chick-fil-A as family.
Mr. Pickens spent his life in the service of others by helping those who were at the end of their life, suffering mental anguish, and battling addiction. There are innumerable people whom he helped overcome troubles in their life.
He enjoyed many lifelong friends with perhaps the most special being Ed Reid with whom he created many special memories throughout their lives.
Joe and Paula married in 2007 and from that time they were inseparable. They enjoy traveling, working in the yard and just spending time together no matter what the circumstance.
“Pe- Paw” loved his grandchildren with all of his heart and loved to attend their games and recitals.
Active pallbearers to serve are; Reggie Henry, Cory Hobbs, Danny Laughlin, Tim Pickens, William Piercey, Adam Volner, Richard Henry and Marty Frye. Honorary pallbearers are Ed Reid and Grant Edwards.
Funeral Services will be conducted on Saturday, March 30, 2019 at 2 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church with interment to follow in Poplar Corner Cemetery. Rev. John White will officiate the service.
The family will receive friends and loved ones on Friday, March 29, 2019 from 4-7 p.m. at the North Chapel of George A. Smith and Sons and will resume on Saturday March 30, 2019 from 12:00 pm until the time of the service at 2:00 pm at First Presbyterian Church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be directed to JACOA or to the charity of the donor’s choice.
