Earl Eugene Pickett “Uncle Bubba” was born in Crab Orchard, Tennessee while his family was visiting relatives. The family continued to grow, 6 brothers, JT, Harold, Laverne, Billy, Meryl, Marion and 3 sisters Geraldine, Betty, and Shirley. He joined the military and was deployed to Japan as a Staff Sargent. In Japan a picture of a young woman hung above the bed of his bunk mate caught his eye. Uncle Bubba asked his bunk mate if he could write a letter to her introducing himself. In one of the letters, he asked Thelma Marie Headlee for her hand in marriage. After discharge, Uncle Bubba headed to Fairfield, Illinois to discuss marriage with Marie’s father. After a week, Pastor Headlee gave his blessing. They then traveled to Florida seeking consent to marry from the Pickett family. After weeks of introductions, blessings were given and off to Folkston, Georgia to be married. They were blessed with 1 daughter, Linda; 3 sons, Donald, Norman, and Michael; 4 grandchildren, Mitchell, Tina, Jennifer, Cody; and 4 great-children, Jordan, Aubrey, Buck, and Xander.

Uncle Bubba excelled in hunting and fishing and were his passions. He took great pride in sharing his knowledge with his own children, nephews, nieces, and countless others. Many Pickett boys will tell you today that “Uncle Bubba” was a big influence in their own life. October 4, 2026, “Uncle Bubba” is at peace in God’s hands looking for “One More Buck”

The tribute above was prepared by Uncle Bubba’s loving family.

A Celebration of Uncle Bubba’s Life will be held on Monday, October 12, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church with Jesse Pickett officiating. Interment will follow at Pickett Cemetery where military honors will be rendered. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. The arrangements are under the care and direction of Nassau Funeral Home, 541720 US-1, Callahan, Florida 32011, 904-879-1770. Visit www.nassaufh.com to sign the family’s guest book.