Harriett Pickett was born July 11, 1933 in Monroe County to the late Irene (Leonard) Holland and Allen Alexander.  On Thursday, October 5, 2017, she was called home to be with her Heavenly Father while at Baptist Memorial Hospital. 

Harriett was married to the late Icsom (Butch) Pickett for 55 years. To their union, nine children were born. She was preceded in death by her daughter Emma Jean Pickett, son Cleodis Pickett, and sister Alma Carter.

Mother Harriett was a faithful and dedicated member of Allen Temple Missionary Baptist Church, where she served for many years under the leadership of Reverend G.H. Wade and for the past 25 years under the current leader, Pastor Gilbert Byrd. Sister Pickett was a very active and committed member, participating and accepting many roles, including cooking, fundraising, missionary, choir, and President of the Willing Workers Committee for many years during her membership. She remained steadfast and was committed to worship in the house of the Lord until she was called to her eternal home. 

Harriett and Icsom were proud owners of Pickett’s Soul Food of Stuttgart, AR, a prominent business within the community for 31 years.  She worked tirelessly to assure that everyone received the “Pickett Soul Food” experience with all food made from scratch and not one soul ever left hungry.  The restaurant received many accolades and had a reputation throughout the state for its good food, consistency, integrity, and genuine hospitality.  To this day, her smothered chicken and fried pies are still a memorable topic among patrons. They believed whole-heartedly in treating her customers like family, and many wonderful friendships were developed over the years. She often quoted, “It’s not always about the money, treat people the way you would like to be treated and you will be blessed”, which reflected her character.  She had a heart of gold, always willing to give, expecting nothing in return.

During her spare time, Harriett enjoyed traveling with friends, watching baseball, cooking and spending time with family.  She was a very loving mother and grandmother, always seizing the opportunity to teach about good work ethics, manners, and Christ.  After her health began to fail, her latter years were spent in Crestpark Nursing Facility. 

She leaves to cherish her memories three sons, Anthony (Kandy) Pickett of Arlington, TX; Ray (Marrietta) Pickett of Lewisville, TX; and Keith Pickett of Stuttgart, AR. Four daughters Betty Chambers of Stuttgart, AR; Shirley Pickett of Detroit, MI; Barbara (Wilbert) Owens of Roe, AR; and Janice Pickett Wofford of Stuttgart, AR. Daughter-in-law Mary Ann Pickett of Stuttgart, AR.  Two sisters Leola Cunningham of Cleveland, OH and Jerlene Baker of Stuttgart, AR.  One brother William (Julia) Alexander of Bolingbrook, IL.  One sister-in-law Rosie Pickett of Dumas, AR. Twenty-six grandchildren, forty-five great grandchildren, fifteen great-great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and church family.

Professional services entrusted to and provided by Relerford Funeral Home, 301 S. College St, Stuttgart, AR 72160. (870) 672-8901. Visit us on FaceBook: Relerford FH

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