Willie Pickens

It is with profound sadness and a deep sense of loss that we announce the passing of our beloved Willie Pickens, who departed this world peacefully at his home on May 2, 2026, at the age of 63. Born on November 25, 1962, in Hushpuckena, Mississippi, Willie was a beacon of light, laughter, and love in the lives of all who knew him. Willie was the cherished son of the late Anna Mae Pickens and Willie Pickens Sr. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Jesse Pickens, and dear friends Bernard Smith and Eddie Bland. Despite these losses, Willie’s heart remained full, fueled by the joy of his surviving family: his ten children—Cory Alexander, Codina Alexander, Ericka Pickens, Ashley Pickens, Jessica Floyd, Frankie Pickens, David Bland, Johnathan Pickens, Lily Banger, and the late Edward Pickens. He leaves behind a legacy that includes twelve grandchildren and twenty-two great-grandchildren, each a testament to his enduring love and commitment to family. In the late 1990s, Willie found a lifelong partner in Ashley, with whom he shared over two decades of marriage before she passed on to join her parents in 2024. Their union was a beautiful chapter in Willie’s life, filled with mutual respect, deep love, and shared dreams. A proud alumnus of Broad Street High School in Shelby, Mississippi, Willie was a man of the community. He was well-known for his lawn service business, where his diligence and dedication were evident in every project. His work was not just a career but a passion, and he took great pride in beautifying his community. In 1980, Willie joined Community Chapel, where he found not only faith but also a family. His involvement was a testament to his character—a man of principle, generosity, and compassion, always ready to lend a helping hand and uplift those around him. Willie had an infectious sense of humor, known for lighting up a room with his presence and making people laugh with ease. His ability to bring joy to others was unparalleled and will be profoundly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. A memorial service celebrating Willie’s remarkable life will be held on May 30, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Broad Street High Gym. Friends and family are warmly invited to join in remembering a man who touched so many lives with his kindness and warmth. The family extends heartfelt thanks to Delta Manor for their unwavering support and love during Willie’s final years. Special gratitude is given to his great-granddaughters, Lacurshia and Alexandria Pickens, for their selfless dedication and care, balancing their own lives to support their grandfather in his time of need. As we say goodbye to a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, we take comfort in the memories and the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of laughter, love, and community. Willie Pickens will forever be remembered and cherished in our hearts.