Herman Wesley Pickens Sr.

Herman Wesley Pickens Sr., a man of unwavering spirit and a boisterous personality passed away December 17, 2024, at the Baptist Homes of Independence in Independence, Missouri, at the age of 79. Born on August 2, 1945, in Ardmore, Oklahoma, he was the beloved son of John Wesley and Ledonia (Anderson) Pickens.

Herman spent his formative years in Ardmore, where he graduated from Graham High School. Following his education, he honorably served in the United States Army from 1965 to 1967, including a deployment in Vietnam that deeply shaped his life.

Following his military service, Herman dedicated over four decades of his life to General Motors, where he was known for his diligence and commitment. In Kansas City, Missouri, he found love when he married Treva Walker, though their union eventually came to a close. Herman had a keen interest in the stock market, relishing the knowledge and possibilities surrounding financial mobility.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Ladonia Wesley, as well as his siblings: Johnnie Pickens, Kern Pickens, Sherman Pickens, and Melvine Stevenson.

Herman leaves behind a loving family, including his current spouse, Gail Pickens, of Lee's Summit, Missouri. He is also survived by his three sons, Derrek (Jessie) Walters of Wynnwood, Oklahoma; Mac (Tracey) Walker of Gladstone, Missouri; and Herman Jr. (Annette) Pickens of Lee's Summit, Missouri. His daughters, Teena (Jose) of Phoenix, Arizona, and Taye (Chris) Slaughter of Raytown, Missouri, also cherish his memory.

Herman's legacy continues through his six cherished grandchildren—Kerrick Walters, Taylor Slaughter, Craig Slaughter, Corey Slaughter, Karter Slaughter, and Albert Angel Hill—as well as two great-grandchildren, Karter and Christopher Slaughter.

As we remember Herman, we celebrate a life marked by resilience, dedication, and love. He touched the lives of many and will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.