James Ancel Pickles, Jr., age 62, passed away on Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021 in Ellijay, Ga.
Jimmy, as he was known to everyone, was born in Monticello, Fla., on April 20, 1958 and grew up in Greenville, Fla. After completing high school, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. After his service to his country, Jimmy returned to North Florida where he eventually was employed by the Florida Department of Corrections. He worked at Mayo, Hamilton, Taylor and Jefferson Correctional Institutions and achieved the rank of Captain before retiring in 2011. During his career in the Department of Corrections, Jimmy was very well respected and was beloved by the staff who worked with and for him.
Jimmy loved his family, his dogs, his friends and the Florida Gators. He loved joking with and pranking people, and if you’ve never been scared by Jimmy Pickles (one of his favorite pastimes), then you didn’t spend much time around him. He was a gentle giant, beloved by nearly everyone he met, who would give you the shirt off his back if he thought you needed it.
Jimmy is predeceased by both parents, James Ancel Pickles, Sr. and Willie Mae Handley Townsend; and his sister, Sheila. He is survived by his wife, best friend and constant companion, Patricia Tompkins Pickles; two daughters, Kemon and Deda McCrae (Matt); three brothers: J.T. King, Henry Mitchell King and Cully Joe Pickles (Tracey); five sisters: Cathy Adams (James), Patsy Webb, Geraldine Beggs, Shirley King and Wanda Cantrell; and three grandchildren. He is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews.
Services will be held on Sunday, Sept. 19, at 3 p.m. in the Beggs Funeral Home Madison Chapel followed by interment at Evergreen Cemetery, in Greenville. There will be a visitation from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 19, prior to the service.
T.J. Beggs, Jr. & Sons Funeral Home of Madison will be serving the family. You may send condolences to the family by visiting the website at www.beggsfuneral.com or call (850) 973-2258.