In the early evening of March 13, 2021, Phyllis Matthews Pickens, 78, of Huntsville was greeted into the heavenly realms by our Lord, Jesus Christ. She was surrounded by her family and friends sharing love and stories of her blessed life.
Born on October 4, 1942 in Sheffield, AL, Phyllis grew up in Tuscumbia, AL and graduated from Deshler High School in 1960. She attended Auburn University, graduating in 1964. While at Auburn, she married Gardiner Pickens, the love of her life.
She was preceded in death by her father, Kenneth Russ Matthews, her mother, Evelyn Cary Matthews, her brother, Kenneth Russ Matthews, Jr., and her sister, Gail McClure.
She is survived by her husband, Gardiner Pickens; her two daughters, Lisa Pickens Thorington (Johnny) and Laura Pickens; her two adored grandchildren, Taylor and Jake Thorington; and many nieces and nephews.
Phyllis was a beloved 2nd grade teacher at Challenger Elementary School. Her long 32 year education career also included loving children in Tullahoma, TN, Stone Middle School, Mtn. Gap Elementary School, and Farley Elementary School. One of her greatest joys besides teaching was sharing her love of all things Auburn. In her retirement she loved spending time with Gardiner, family, her dear friends, and she especially loved tailgating on the Plains.
She will always be remembered for her radiant smile, bright blue eyes, outgoing personality, intense enthusiasm for Auburn, her girls, and her amazing grandchildren. She was a beloved teacher, loyal friend, loving mother and Mimi and a devoted and loving wife.
We would like to thank the doctors of UAB Internal Medicine, the ER and ICU nurses at HH, the staff and nurses at HH Hospice Family Care, and especially Dr. John Fanning. His wisdom, grace, and guidance has given us great assurance during an incredibly difficult time.
Visitation will be Friday, March 19th from 1:30 to 2:30 with the funeral following at 2:30 at Trinity United Methodist Church, Huntsville, Alabama.
If desired, contributions may be made to Free to Teach, Clearview Cancer Institute, or Huntsville Hospital Hospice Family Care in her loving memory.
