John David Pickens was born to Alex and Grace Pickens on October 4, 1951, in Beaumont, Texas. The eldest of seven children, John graduated from South Park High School in Beaumont and received a full academic scholarship to attend Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, where he studied engineering.

Described by his son as "the smartest person I know," John constantly sought to become a better version of himself. He was an avid reader and enjoyed researching unfamiliar topics. He also completed Spanish courses, attended seminary and was an ordained minister. His life passion was teaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. John taught the School of Christ International and developed a new curriculum which focused on developing the whole new man. John believed that the true gospel would radically change the lives of men.  For more than two decades, John served as a chaplain for Beaumont prison units within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Like many of his siblings, John was an excellent cook and even better baker. He was an easy conversationalist, and people were drawn to his calm and genuine nature. John never passed up an opportunity to offer encouragement and he frequently helped others, even serving as a caretaker for multiple family members.

John married the love of his life, Gloria Rubit Pickens on June 1, 2002. The couple was inseparable until Gloria's death in 2015.

John passed away peacefully on March 18, 2023. Also preceding him in death were his parents, and his brothers Michael and Mark Pickens.

His family that cherishes his memory includes his son, John Pickens Jr. (Nicole); stepsons Kevin LeVier (Ciji), Keith LeVier and Kendall LeVier; sisters Deborah Pickens and Sarah Pickens Joseph; and brothers Alex B. Pickens (Berlinda) and Kevin Pickens (Rhonda). John will be missed by his beloved grandchildren, Morghan, Makaela (Pickens), Jashira, Christiauna, Fred, Jonae, Jakavien, Zorian and Qualan (LeVier). John was also loved by special friends, Roderick Bluiett and Craig Johnson; his nephews, nieces, aunts, cousins, and many friends.

Funeral Service for Mr. John David Pickens, Sr. will be held on Saturday, March 25, 2023, at 11:00 A.M. at Victory Temple with interment to follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park under the direction of Calvary Mortuary Staff.

Visitation will be held from 9:30 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. Saturday at the Church.