William C. (Buddy) Pickens was born March 28, 1939 in McNairy County, TN the son of the late Rufus L. and Velma Scott Pickens.
He was united in marriage to Joan Barnes on May 26, 2006.
Buddy attended New Delight Elementary and Adamsville High School. He served his country honorably in the United States Army in the early 1960’s and was stationed in Guatemala. Following his discharge from military service Buddy worked in law enforcement, serving as a Deputy Sheriff under Jimmy Dickey, a Selmer Police Officer under Hugh Kirkpatrick, and as a Constable in McNairy County. He also worked for Blasingame Farms and was a mechanic for the McNairy County Highway Department for 27 years. Buddy was a member of the gospel group “Forgiven” for 14 years, playing the mandolin and singing along with his wife Joan. He was a collector of many things, including instruments. Buddy had a special place in his heart for children and would help anyone in need. He attended the Ramer Cumberland Presbyterian Church, where he often sang specials accompanied by his wife Joan.
Buddy departed this life on January 18, 2023 in Selmer, Tennessee at the age of 83 Years, 9 Months, 21 Days. He is survived by his wife of 16 years, Joan (Barnes) Pickens of Selmer, TN; a son, Marty Pickens and wife Sharon of Plains, FL; a daughter, Anita Kay Curlin and husband Steve of Adamsville, TN; two grandchildren, Cooper Curlin and Shelbie Pickens; three brothers: T. L. Pickens, Larry Pickens and wife Sue, and Roger Pickens and wife Rhonda, all of Stantonville, TN; a sister-in-law, Nelda Pickens of Stantonville, TN; his two furry friends, Buster and Susie; and many extended family and friends.
In addition to his parents, Buddy was preceded in death by a grandchild, Mary Jo Kaitlin Pickens; a brother, Billy Pickens; and a sister-in-law, Sarah Pickens.
Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
