James (Jim) Pickens, Jr. (Lebanon)'s Obituary
James (Jim) Pickens, Jr. was born May 29, 1937 to James M. Pickens, Sr. and Hester Leffert Pickens in Old Linn Creek, Missouri. He passed away Saturday, August 16, 2025 in his home in Lebanon, Missouri. He was eighty-eight years, two months and eighteen days of age.
Jim spent his early years in the Camdenton, Missouri area before moving with his family to Lebanon. He graduated from Lebanon High School in 1957 and enlisted with the United States Air Force. He served four years and returned to Lebanon where he worked at Bennett Spring State Park. He then was employed at Hopkins Lumber where he made his career for thirty-five years. He was very knowledgeable in the lumber business and enjoyed his career there very much.
On April 24, 1965, Jim was united in marriage to Bonnie Hill. They were thrilled to celebrate sixty years of marriage this past April.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Bonnie, of the home; one son, Luther Pickens of Ottawa, Kansas; one daughter, Rebecca Chastain and her husband Mark of Lebanon, Missouri; four grandchildren, Harley, Nisa, Triston and Michael; five great-grandchildren, Eris, Julian, Percy, Halan and Atreyu; and his brother, Joe Pickens of Payson, Arizona.
His is preceded in death by his parents, James and Hester; and his siblings, Martin Pickens and Martha Tyre.
Jim was a longtime member of the First United Methodist Church in Lebanon. He loved God and his church family. In his spare time, Jim enjoyed fishing and was also active in the American Legion. He was very patriotic and loved his country very much.
Jim loved and cherished his family. He was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and brother. He was a caring and trusted neighbor and friend. Jim was a good, honorable man who loved and trusted God, worked hard and always tried to do the right thing. His passing is sad for his family and friends, but rejoice in his homecoming where he is with his savior, his parents, and other family members.
A memorial to St. Jude Research Children's Hospital has been established and donations may be left at the funeral home.
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