Ralph Pickett

Ralph Malcolm Pickett, 91, of Mount Airy, died April 3, 2008, at Lorien Mount Airy Assisted Living. He was the husband of the late Virginia Brightwell Pickett, who preceded him in death in March 2002.

Born Nov. 16, 1916 in Ellicott City, he was the son of the late Harry C. and Elva Kelley Pickett.

He was a veteran of World War II, having served in Europe. He was a member of Prudence Lodge #190 A.F. & A.M., Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10076, American Legion Post 191, and Eastern Star Prudence Chapter 95.

He started the Mount Airy 55 Plus Club and was president for 11 years. He was inducted into the Mount Airy Historical Society Hall of Fame in 2007. He was an amateur radio operator for more than 50 years. He and his wife operated Pickett's General Merchandise Store in Mount Airy for 31 years, retiring in 1981. He was a member of Calvary United Methodist Church in Mount Airy.

He is survived by his daughter, Bette Vaughan and husband, Leonard of Martinsburg, W.Va.; grandchildren, Allison Meley and husband, Brian of Harpers Ferry, W.Va., Scott Vaughan of Harpers Ferry, W.Va., and Michael Vaughan of Martinsburg, W.Va.; a brother, Paul Pickett of New Port Ritchie, Fla.; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He is also survived by the special family of William and Linda Strayton, who were devoted friends and caregivers.

Besides his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Ralph Malcolm Pickett Jr.; brother, Thomas Pickett; sisters, Margaret Bautz and Mildred "Peachie" Warfield; and special friend, Thelma Pysher.

Arrangements are by Molesworth-Williams Funeral Home, Damascus. There will not be calling at the funeral home.

The family will receive friends beginning at 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 9, at the Poplar Springs United Methodist Church. The funeral service will begin at 2 p.m. at the church. The Rev. Dennis C. Yocum of his home church, will officiate. Interment will follow in the church yard.

Those desiring, may send memorial contributions to Mount Airy Senior Activities Center, 703 Ridge Avenue, Mount Airy, MD 21771.

Condolences may be expressed online at www.molesworthwilliams.com.