Donald deGraffenreid Pickett

Donald deGraffenreid Pickett passed away on October 17, 2025 in Tallahassee, Florida. He was born in Canal Point, Florida in 1935 to parents John and Edna Pickett.
Don spent his early years in Pahokee, attending the Pahokee schools and graduating Pahokee High in 1954. He was a member of the First Methodist Church in Pahokee, where he began his life as a practicing Christian. In 1959 he graduated from Florida State University with a BS in Biological Sciences and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Army that same year.
Don served in the Army for 20 years with tours in numerous posts throughout the United States, Germany, Dominican Republic and two tours in Viet Nam. He retired in 1980 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, with numerous awards and decorations including: The Legion of Merit, two Bronze Stars, Air Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Accommodation Medals, the Combat Infantry Badge and the Combat Armor Badge.
Upon retirement from the Army in 1980, Don returned to his native state of Florida and made Tallahassee his home. He immediately embarked on a new career in real estate. Most of his real estate career was with Coldwell Banker. He enjoyed a very successful career. He was voted the Tallahassee Board of Realtors 2007 Realtor of the Year.
Don loved to be gardening, photography, good food and the nightly healthy Crown. He loved to cook and was a creative chef, he even published his favorite collection of recipes. Don loved to travel and visited many parts of the world and the United States.
Don leaves behind his nieces Cynthia, Donna, Elizabeth and Linda, and great-nephew Trey. He will also be missed by his life friend Stephen Kirvin; friends James Walls and Bobby Taylor, Lance and Susie Winton, as well as his many real estate assistants and associates.
TRUST was Don's guide throughout his life.
A graveside service will be held at Oakland Cemetery, date and time to be announced.
Breanna Green of Bevis Funeral Home (850-385-2193 or www.bevisfh.com) is assisting with arrangements.