Sam Pickens

Sam Pickens Jr. (1953–2025)

Sam Pickens Jr., 72, departed this heavenly earth on December 22, 2025, in Port Gibson,

Mississippi. A man of God and family, his life was a testament to joy, athletic excellence, and

devotion to his community.

Born on November 20, 1953, in Chicago, Illinois, to Sam Pickens Sr. and Johnnie B. Lacey,

Sam was an avid player and fan of both baseball and football, his natural talent for sports

earned him the nickname “Shotgun”

, a title he carried on well into adulthood.

His early education began at Kershaw Elementary and Walter Reed Middle School in Chicago

and progressed to Englewood High School, where he enjoyed playing baseball until

graduation in 1971. For university, Sam chose Langston University and later settled in

Oklahoma City, where he served as the Head Janitorial Manager for Edmond Public Schools

until his retirement.

Sam was a faithful member of Bethlehem Church of God in Christ under

the leadership of Elder James Cruthirds. He found happiness in the simple

things, taking walks, and enjoying snacks while watching a good film.

Sam was preceded in death by his devoted parents, Johnnie B. Lacey and Sam Pickens, Sr.;

two brothers, Larry Pickens, Sr., and Gary Pickens; one sister, Sherry Dicus; and one

nephew, Larry R. Pickens.

He leaves behind a legacy of hard work and a deep love for his family.

His memory will be cherished by his two beautiful daughters, La Shawnda Denise Pickens

(California, daughter of the late Vanessa Harcherson-Mims), and Rebecca Yolanda Robertson

(Oklahoma, daughter of Gayle Robertson); one grandson, Marlon Alexander Curry

(Oklahoma); three sisters, Delaine & Denise Pickens (Illinois), and Emma (Leroy) Harvey

(Missouri); one sister-in-law, Sharon Pickens (Mississippi); and one brother, Anthony Pickens

Sr. (Missouri).

He is also survived by six nieces, Keana Pickens (Mississippi), Zoe Hervey and Velisha

Brockert (Missouri), Gabrielle Pickens, Ja’Nae Pickens, and Na’Jae Pickens (Illinois), and

six nephews, Walter Dicus, Anthony Pickens Jr., and Jeremy Pickens (Missouri), Duarte

Pickens, Stephen Pickens, and Larry Pickens Jr. (Mississippi).

He is further survived by three special childhood friends, Rudolph, Eddie, and Lawrence,

along with a host of other beloved cousins, friends, family members, and colleagues.

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