Betty Marie Pickens

Betty Pickens, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on March 23, 2025, at The Pines in Kirksville, Missouri. She was born on January 10, 1934, in Green Castle, Missouri, to Thomas and Emma (Pierce) Billington. She later graduated from Green City High School in 1951. Betty lived a life rich in love, hard work, and cherished moments.

Betty dedicated her career to Sodexo, where she worked tirelessly from 1993 until her retirement in 2014 at the remarkable age of 80. Throughout her years with the company, she fostered lasting relationships with her coworkers and the Truman students, many of whom remember her fondly for her kindness and dedication.

Her family was her greatest joy and proudest accomplishment. Betty was a devoted mother to her children, Rick Pickens of Greentop, Missouri, and Valerie (Travis) Horn of Kirksville, Missouri. She was a doting grandmother to her grandchildren, Jacquelyn Bishop of LaQuinta, California and Ryan (Chloe) Bishop of Liberty, Missouri. Betty was overjoyed to be reunited with her son Bob Crego of Gainsville, Georgia, her grand children JR (Danielle) Crego, and David Crego and her great-grandchildren, Ollie and Bentley Crego.

Betty found happiness in the simplest of pleasures, especially when tending to her vibrant garden filled with flowers, under the sun. She passionately cheered for her grandkids during their sports and activities, embodying the spirit of support and love. In her free time, she enjoyed playing games, sharing countless rounds of cards and croquet with her loved ones. A talented cook, Betty took great joy in preparing holiday meals, often spoiling her family with her delicious creations.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Jack Pickens, as well as her five brothers and four sisters.

Pallbearers; Ryan Bishop, Travis Horn, JR Crego, David Crego, Roger Billington, and John Stewart. Honorary Pallbearers; Jacquelyn Bishop, Carla True, Linda Jones, and Dorothy Harlan, and her dear coworkers at Sodexo.

Betty's legacy of love and dedication will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her. Family and friends are invited to celebrate her life during the Funeral Service at Church of God Holiness, located at 1601 N Elson St, Kirksville, MO, at 2:00 PM on March 28, 2025, followed by a Graveside Service at Park View Memorial Gardens.

Her spirit lives on in the joy she brought to her family and all those fortunate enough to have been touched by her warmth and generosity.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Church of God Holiness Kirksville or Adair County Humane Society.