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BORN
1929
DIED
2022
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James Pickering Obituary
James Pickering, 92, of Tucson, Arizona passed away peacefully on March 30, 2022.
He was born in Burnley, England on August 28, 1929. At age 20, he moved to the United States, where he proudly served our country for 23 years in the U.S. Air Force. James retired at the rank of Chief Master Sergeant and fondly remembered his service as one of the greatest hallmarks of his life.
James went on to work in the aerospace industry for Learjet and AlliedSignal (Honeywell), where he met his loving and devoted wife of 33 years, Beverly. A great historian and avid storyteller, James enjoyed having long conversations with his many friends.
He was grateful for his long and full retirement, which allowed him to pursue his numerous lifelong passions. He was a sought-after expert in cacti and enjoyed growing them and sharing his knowledge of them for 72 years. He loved history, the Old West, and collecting antique firearms and ancient coins, among many other hobbies. James was one of the original members of the Historical Arms Society of Tucson (HAST).
He was a superb calligrapher, and his beautiful writing graced the hundreds of love letters he wrote to Beverly during their marriage. He generously shared his gifts and talents with those around him.
James will be greatly missed by many, but his sense of humor, love, service to others and booming voice will live on in our hearts forever. He will receive military honors during his funeral service at noon Friday, April 15th at the Arizona Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 15950 N. Luckett Road, Marana, 85653. Arrangements: Adair Avalon.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Pickering
3 Entries
Carl Shultz
April 14, 2022
My condolences to Beverly and the rest of the family. You can be assured he will be missed by many.
I first met Jim at Learjet in my younger days. We quickly hit it off and he took me under his wing and taught me the basics about learning curves and we shared a passion for automation, working on several projects together. He guided me through corporate politics and was an avid cheerleader as I moved through the company. His influence on me during that time will be forever fondly remembered and appreciated. Without his sage advice and guidance who knows what path I would of taken. Rest well my friend, until we meet again.
Pam Marchbanks
April 14, 2022
I'm very sorry for your loss. I just noticed the name and remember my father, Perry O. Kaylor (deceased), who used to fondly refer to Pickering. They were both in the USAF and I believe might have known each other when growing up. My father graduated from Tucson High and flew during WWII where he was shot down and became a German POW. Again, my sincere condolences on your loss.
Tristan J Davis
April 11, 2022
So sad to hear of the passing of James. He was an enormous influence of my passion for Brazilian cacti. I shall cherish the many memories of my chats with James at his place, in my garden, and at Bach's over the years. I strive to be as generous to other cactophiles as he was to me.
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Adair Funeral Homes & El Encanto Memorial Crematory - Avalon Chapel8090 North Northern Avenue, Oro Valley, AZ 85704
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