Obituary of James Richard Pickett

James Richard Pickett, age 70, passed away Thursday, January 31, 2013. He was born in Lawrence, Kansas, May 16, 1942 to Richard and Olive Pickett who preceded him in death along with sister Linda Riggs and loving wife Diane. He is survived by his son Kenneth Pickett and fiancée Tina Hernandez, granddaughter Katie Pickett, two nephews Zackary Barreras and Larry Riggs Jr. and his loving fiancée Roma Ann McGehee. As a youngster he enjoyed collecting and showing butterflies, which he shared with other Lepidopterist. Jim and Diane were proud members of the AKC. They loved raising and showing AKC German Shepherds. Other activities he enjoyed were bowling, fishing, camping and playing golf. His favorite hobby was being an amateur Astronomer. Jim was proud that he was able to participate in the construction of the General Nathan Twining Observatory near Belen, NM. He would go to different schools and do presentations to the children. He was very knowledgeable and could get his big telescopes out to let friends learn about the stars and planets. He worked for Rainbo/Sara Lee bakery, here in Albuquerque as a Superintendent until he retired in 2003. He looked forward to his Super bowl Parties each year and always hoped for his team, the Kansas City Chiefs to make it to the big game. Jim will be missed by his many relatives in Arizona, Kansas and Missouri. He was loved by many different groups of friends and will be missed very much. Our family would like to extend thanks to all of the staff at Lovelace for their help, kindness and friendship during Jim's illness. If you wish you can make a donation to your favorite charity in his name. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 6, 2013 at 10:00 AM Memorial services following at 11:00 AM all at Riverside Funeral Home of Albuquerque, 225 San Mateo NE. A reception will follow after at a different location. Jim will be cremated and his ashes spread at a private location at another time. Arrangements entrusted to Riverside Funeral Home of Albuquerque, 764-9663.