Charles Pickens

Franklin, NC - Charles Pickens, age 76, of Mason Branch Rd, Franklin, NC passed away Saturday, February 4, 2012 at an Asheville Hospital. He was a native of Macon Co., the son of the late Wade and Evelyn Pickens. He is survived by his wife, Lucy Henry Pickens of 53 years.

Charles was a faithful member of Cowee Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon, a Sunday School Teacher and on a variety of committees. He enjoyed coaching the church league softball team for a number of years. He was a charter member of the Cowee Volunteer Fire & Rescue Dept. where he served on the original board of directors. He enjoyed bowling in the Men’s Dogwood League for many years. He treasured attending his grandchildren’s sporting events. He enjoyed hunting and fishing with family. One of his favorite hobbies was working the family farm with his son. He also enjoyed listening to gospel music. Charles was a salesman for Auto Parts & Equipment, Car Quest and Napa for over 50 years. He was a loving husband, father, brother, grand-dad, family man and friend.

In addition to his wife Lucy he is survived by one daughter Linda Pickens Allen and husband Randy; one son Larry Pickens and wife Angie; seven grandchildren Ben, Nick, Landon and Chaz Allen, Jordan, Daniel and Gabe Pickens; two sisters Ruth Pickens Holden and Judy Pickens Shuler and husband Jerry; one brother Robert Eugene Pickens and wife Ada; mother-in-law Bernice Henry; and several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by an infant brother.

Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, February 7, 2012 at 11:00 am at Cowee Baptist Church, with Rev. David Powell, Rev. Lloyd Fish and Rev. Rick Potts officiating. Pallbearers will be Carroll Tallent, Furman Shook, Gary Thompson, Allen Berry, Ralph Sanders, Bennie Reynolds, Arnold Rickman and Harold Clark. Honorary pallbearers will be the Gardner Holden’s men’s class and the Cowee Baptist Church Deacons.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 pm, Monday, February 6, 2012 at Cowee Baptist Church and also from 10:00 to 11:00 am Tuesday, February 7, 2012 at the church one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Gardner Holden Men’s C class of Cowee Baptist Church. Mail to Arnold Rickman, 6301 Bryson City Rd. Franklin, NC 28734.

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home is in charge of local arrangements.
Online condolences are available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.