James "Jim" Dean Pickett

James “Jim” Dean Pickett, 68, passed away on September 11, 2024, in Westville, IL, at his home while surrounded by family. Jim was born on January 18, 1956, in Danville, IL to James and Beverly (Styer) Pickett. Jim was a loving son, husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.

Jim married the love of his life, Lori Thomas, on November 2, 1974. Jim is survived by his wife, Lori, and his kids: J.D. Pickett of Danville, IL, Joshua (Loretta) Pickett of North Carolina, and Somer (Matt) Nagrodski, of Westville, IL. His mother, Beverly of Danville, IL, and grandmother, Delores Styer, survives him, as well as five of his siblings: Starla Brumback (Dave McDaniel Sr) of Anderson, IN, Frank (Tina) Pickett of Danville, IL, Kenny (Denise) Pickett of Tilton, IL, Rhonda (Mark) Sollars of Danville, IL, and Jay (Tammy) Pickett of Georgetown, IL. Jim also is leaving behind five great-grandchildren and thirteen grandchildren: Autumn, Christian, Chandler, Madilyn, Anderson, Kirsten, Maisie, Chloe, Alivia, Isabella, Joshua, Diezil, and Phoenix. He also had two special cousins that he considered brothers, Tim (Linda) Pickett of Catlin, IL and Dan (Norm) Pickett of Georgetown, IL.  Jim is also leaving behind his lifelong best friend, LeeRoy Songer. He was preceded in death by his father, James, and his brother, Randy.

Jim graduated with honors from DACC with his Associates in Technical Electronics and was a heavy equipment operator. Jim had a huge love for his family.

Jim’s favorite pastime was spending time with his family, tinkering in his garage (if it had a motor, then he could fix it), mowing, game night, cruises to DQ with his grandkids on his golf cart, porch-waving (mad if someone didn’t wave back), watching Phoenix’s softball games, watching Diezil landscape and mow, fishing, and camping with family and friends. He often was referred to as a second dad to many and never met a stranger.

Unfortunately, Jim lost his home of nearly 34 years to a house fire on January 9, 2024, which led to his biggest battle of health. Even during this trying time, he still made his family a priority, especially his wife. He made sure his wife knew how appreciative he was for the care she gave him, ensuring he was able to remain in his new home, which was one of his final wishes.

Before Jim passed, he told his family how he just had the best dream ever…he dreamt he was riding his grandson, Diezil’s, 1975 Yamaha xs650…Jim said “I was free…finally free…and it felt so good.” Ride free, Jimmy Dean…until we meet again.

Memorial service will be held at a later date.

Online condolences: www.rortvedtfuneralservices.com

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