David Strahan Picou, 69, passed away in his home while surrounded by his family on September 24, 2026, after a brief illness with Glioblastoma. He was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, and his presence will be deeply missed.
Dave was born and raised in New Orleans, where he developed his love of fishing, LSU Football, and Cajun cuisine. Boy Scouts played an important role in his childhood and adolescence. He earned the Eagle Scout rank as a teenager. At the age of 16, Dave received a Certificate of Heroism after saving a young boy from drowning. While in Explorer Scouts, he served as an advisor for his post at Philmont. Scouting instilled a love for nature and serving others that carried throughout his lifetime.
He received his Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from Louisiana State University and served as the President of Alpha Phi Omega, a service fraternity. Wanting to serve our country, he became a commissioned officer in the United States Navy. His active duty was served aboard the USS CLEVELAND (LPD-7), USS STARK (FFG-31) and USS LUCE (DDG-38) from 1981-1992.
While stationed at Naval Air Station Pensacola, he met his wife, Cindy, at church. They shared over 41 years of love and laughter. Their children, Joshua and Catherine, were blessed with his selfless love for them. He shared with them his love of all things nature and they spent many days together hiking and fishing. His grandson “Pip” was his greatest joy and he was so proud of him.
His service as a reserve officer (1992-2008) gave him the opportunity to continue
serving our country in various duty stations. He retired as Captain in the US Navy after 27 years of service. His medals include the Navy Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Commendation Medal, Meritorius Service Medal, and Navy and Marine Achievement Medal.
His biochemistry degree led him to a career as sales engineer for various chemical and oil lubricant companies. He was currently happily employed by WH Thomas Oil Company. His desire to serve others continued throughout his lifetime.
Dave enjoyed hiking, fishing, and traveling. He was a member of Central Baptist Church. He was involved in Central Circles, American Legion Post 15, Am Vets Post 1955, The Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, Fly Fishers International, and a weekly hiking group. Dave’s life demonstrated his love and commitment for God, his family, and for country.
Dave is preceded in death by his parents, Lee Picou and Valerie Clements; siblings, Marie Picou Jeanfreau, Marion Picou Ford, Anthony Picou, Esther Picou Callia, Catherine Picou, Lee Joseph Picou, Jeanne Doan, Courtney Picou, and Donna Naquin.
He is survived by his wife, Cynthia Hughes Picou; son, Joshua Dale Picou (Genavieve); daughter, Catherine Gayle Börste (Christopher); grandson, Philipp ”Pip” Bernhard Börste; his “Mama Lou”, Louise Hughes; sister, Gayle Dardar; brothers; Gary Picou (Cindy), Paul Shepherd, William Shepherd (Vicki) and Keith “Huggy” Hughes.
Our family would like to thank Dr. Scott Matthews, Hospice of the Valley, WH Thomas Oil Company, Central Baptist Church, and our amazing friends for the support given during Dave’s illness.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 26, from 2-3pm at Shelton’s Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life will directly follow.
Dave will be laid to rest at Montevallo National Cemetery on Monday, September 28, at 11:45am.
In lieu of flowers, we ask for donations in Dave’s memory to Central Baptist Church Decatur or Am Vets Post 1955 (401 Bluff Dr. NE Hartselle, AL 35640).
