Michael Franklin Pickett

Frank Pickett 1939-2024

Michael Franklin Pickett Sr. age 85, formerly of Martinsville VA, passed away Saturday November 9th in Pulaski VA

after a brief illness.

Frank was born in Fries VA on Oct 20, 1939, to parents E.C. (Pat) and Shirley Pickett.

He graduated one year early from Fries High School in 1957 and entered the Army at age

17 in 1957. In active service he was a paratrooper in the 101st Airborne Division, upon leaving

active duty he was in the reserves for three years and received an Honorable Discharge in July 1963.

He enrolled at East Tennessee State University after serving his country and graduated with a BBA in 1968. His first

job after graduation was working for N.C. state rep (R), Wilmer “Vinegar Bend” Mizell as a

manager during his successful 1969 campaign. Leaving politics behind he began his

business career with Hanes Corporation in Winston-Salem NC. After several transfers he

found his home with VA Mirror Company in Martinsville VA in 1979, retiring in 2005 as

Director of Manufacturing. His appreciation of the career he enjoyed working for Mr. Beeler and his son Chris Beeler was something he often spoke of.

In retirement Frank enjoyed spending time with friends at Forest Park C.C. He was a dedicated lunch

bunch golfer and served on the board for a time. Even after his playing days slowed, he

loved to meet the guys for morning coffee in the pro shop. He was a proud member of 45

years and was given an Honorary Lifetime Membership in 2020.

Frank was a proud veteran and Mason, though not active. He was a lifelong Republican

and was fierce in his political beliefs. He loved bluegrass, beagles, Lincolns and dressing

his best. Well-groomed or dapper would come to mind when describing Frank Pickett.

He was pre-deceased by his parents E.C. (Pat) and Shirley Pickett, brothers Joe Pickett and E.C. Pickett, as well as a

sister Betty Sexton. Frank was survived by sister Nancy Hawks, a daughter Lisa Anne

Pickett, son Michael Pickett, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Frank would want to recognize some special friends; Ken Lanter, Al “Alvin” Hundley, and

John “Abbo” Abercrombie.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Forest Park C.C. on Saturday December 7th from 2-4

p.m. 

In lieu of flowers, he requested donations be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation or

to the American Red Cross.