Gary Earl Pickle

Gary Earl Pickle, coffee lover, professional contrarian, lifelong space enthusiast, heated sports fan, devoted grandfather, and proud veteran, passed away on February 22, 2026.

Gary lived a life that was equal parts service, laughter, and spirited debate. He proudly served his full career in the United States Army National Guard, dedicating his working years to service before retiring comfortably and living a peaceful life surrounded by family. He believed in duty, in country, and in showing up - even if he might argue with you about how you were doing it.

He loved space - the final frontier, conspiracy theories, documentaries, rockets, planets, and probably correcting NASA from his living room. As a card carrying member of the History Channel club, Gary had opinions. Strong ones. Delivered confidently. Often with a grin. As he so lovingly put it, he was a "fountain of useless knowledge" and he always had a story to tell or a fact to share.

He loved football and basketball with the kind of passion that suggested he personally coached every team from the couch. Referees everywhere should feel both relieved and slightly concerned that they will no longer hear his commentary, emboldened by brothers and friends who protested just as loudly with him at the screen.

But above all - above the debates, the jokes, the games, and even the stars - Gary loved being a grandpa. It was his favorite title, the one he carried with pride and softness. In that role, the contrarian became a softie. The jokester became the storyteller. The soldier became the steady, patient presence every grandchild deserves. Pawpaw was a constant source of love and encouragement, going above and beyond to always be there for his grandchildren.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd Pickle and Nancy Pickle (Hubble), and his brothers, Bailey Pickle and Roy Pickle. Gary talked about them often, sharing stories and love for them throughout his life, missing them dearly but honoring their memory.

Gary is survived and will be immensely missed by his family and children: his sisters Nancy Isaacs and Kitty Reese, his brothers Michael Pickle, Lonnie Pickle, Kenny Pickle, and Sherwood Pickle and his children Nancy Pickle and Andy Pickle, who inherited his sense of humor, his stubborn streak, and his deep loyalty to family. His legacy also lives on in his grandchildren, Vincent Pickle and Arthur Pickle who knew him not just as Pawpaw, but as their biggest fan. Additionally, he is survived by his best friend since high school Allan Hedrick and his "former wife" and wonderful friend Angela Bailey.

Gary never missed an opportunity to tease, to challenge, or to love fiercely. He would argue with you just to keep you sharp - and then make sure you had what you needed before you left. He believed laughter could fix most things, and for everything else, there was probably a strong opinion or a cup of coffee that could offer some aid in your trying time.

While we are heartbroken at his passing, we find comfort imagining him with his mom, telling her all of his stories(which he will likely repeat) and sharing his immense knowledge with her.

In honor of Gary, drink a cup of strong coffee, watch a game loudly, debate something confidently, look up at the night sky, and hug your grandchildren a little longer. He would've wanted that.