Sgt . 1st Class Ché Pickens Sr.

Sgt. 1st Class Ché Pickens Sr. was born on Nov. 2, 1979, to Mr. Tommy and Mrs. Pamela Pickens in Houston. He departed this life on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019.  

Che’ Pickens Sr. graduated in 1998 from Mexia High School. He obtained an associate’s degree from Central Texas College. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in February 1999. He served in Bosnia, Iraq, Kosovo and Afghanistan, receiving numerous awards and medals. SFC Pickens retired in 2015.  In 2000, he met and married Army Soldier Ariana Garner.  To this union three sons were born, Jaren M. Pickens, JaJuan Pickens and Che’  L. Pickens Jr.  

He was preceded in death by his father, Tommy Pickens, grandmothers, uncles, aunts, and special military friends.

Left to cherish his memories arehis sons, Jaren M. Pickens (18) who is attending WNMU, JaJuan M. Pickens (17) and Che’ L. Pickens Jr.  (14); his former spouse, MSG Ariana K. Pickens Thomas; mother, Pamela Jakubowski (Joseph); brothers, Anthony Branch, Sean Pickens (Heather),  Jason Anderson (Cynthia); sister, Laurice Branch; very special niece, Lauren Branch (Aaron); special friend, Callie Hall; and many special military friends; members of motorcycle riding clubs; and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and friends.  

Funeral service and arrangements are entrusted to Pearly Gates Funeral Home. Service was held at 3 p.m. Sept. 22 at Mexia High School Auditorium.