Howard Wayne Pickens

Howard "Wayne" Pickens

July 11, 1944 - September 3, 2024

Wayne went to be with his Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, on Tuesday, September 3, 2024.

He was born in Akron, OH on July 11, 1944, to James and Lulah Pickens. Wayne is survived by his wife of 53 years, Sally; daughters, Lisa Fuller (Christian), Rebekah Crabeels (Shawn), and sons, Jerry Pickens (Lisa) and Kevin Huffaker. He was the proud grandpa of nine grandchildren, Tyler (Tiffanni), Jordan, Nicholas, Mason, Leo, Alexis, Brooke and Carleigh, and three great-granddaughters, Eliana, Rilynn and Oaklynn. Preceded in death by sisters Sue and Carolyn, and brother Gene; he is survived by his sister Marge and brothers Harold and David. He also was preceded in death by his grandson, Robert Jordan Stack.

Wayne was an active member of Grace Baptist Church, where he was a van driver for many years, providing transportation for seniors to attend church and also an usher with a kind and welcoming smile. If you had the privilege of knowing Wayne, you probably never met anyone kinder than he was. 

Wayne retired from Rotek, Inc. in 2010, after which he and his wife were able to take their "dream trip" out West and through many states. 

Our family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the amazing staff at Maplewood Senior Living in Cuyahoga Falls and Crossroads Hospice for their loving and compassionate care during Wayne's final weeks of life.

Family and friends are welcome to visit at Grace Baptist Church, 704 N. Firestone Blvd. Akron, OH 44306 on Monday, September 9th from 10:00 a.m. until the funeral service begins at 12:00 p.m. with Pastor Bob Stephens officiating. Interment to follow the service at Silver Springs Cemetery in Stow, where Wayne will be laid to rest. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the church, at the address above, or Haven of Rest Ministries.

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