ALBANY – Joseph E. Pickett, 93, of Albany, passed away on Friday, October 30, 2015 at the Eddy Heritage House. Joe was born in Rensselaer, the eldest of six children of the late Joseph and Anna Stormier Pickett. He moved to the Albany’s South End, living on Catharine St since 1955. He attended Philip Schuyler High School, where he ran track, boxed and played football until joining the United States Marine Corps at the age of 17 in 1940. During World War II, he served as a Sergeant with the infantry of the iconic 1st Marine Division, which is commonly referred to as the “Old Breed” in the South Pacific, including at the battles of Guadalcanal, Cape Gloucester, New Britain and Peleliu, with other support activities in Australia, New Zealand and the Palau Islands. After the war, he began a career with the Albany Police Dept., where he was a trusted and familiar presence in South End, known for his compassion for women and children, and became one of the City’s longest serving officers, retiring with 43 years of service. Joe proudly earned his GED at age 50. Always keeping fit, he took up jogging in the 1970s and could be seen around the city jogging in all types of weather. He enjoyed reading, especially history, was known for having a great sense of humor, and also enjoyed the peace and solitude of fishing on Saratoga Lake. Joe was happy living a simple life, dedicated to sacrifice for his family and his country.
Joe was predeceased by his beloved wife Elizabeth A. Fischer Pickett. He is survived by his sons Keith J. Pickett (Merla Mason) of Troy, and Joseph C. Pickett of Albany; his sisters in law Sister Gilmary Fischer, CSJ, of Latham, and Madeline Szell of Rocky River, OH; his granddaughters Maura E. Pickett and Melissa and Leslie Richburg; and by several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his siblings Shirley, Harold, and George Pickett, Rita Walsh, and Evan Pickett.
Funeral services will be held in the Hans Funeral Home, 1088 Western Ave., Albany, and Tuesday morning at 11:00. Relatives and friends are invited, and may call at the funeral home Tuesday morning from 9-11 am. Entombment will follow in St. Agnes Cemetery, Menands. The family suggests memorial contributions to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, 3 Oakland Ave, Menands, NY 12204. To leave a message of condolence for the family, or obtain directions to the funeral home, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com.
Dan Meher
I have known Joe for over 40 years. I also worked out of Div.II. Joe Pickett always displayed honor. This man had no fear. He was not the tallest man on the street, but he was the biggest guy , on the scene when he was helping a rookie. My deepest sympathies to the family of Joe Pickett. God bless Joe Pickett.
Charles Peters
My deepest sympathies to the family of Joe. I remember him as many others do as the “Little Giant”. He taught all of us rookies way back in the 70’s how to handle the people in custody. He always appeared meek and mild but handled business efficiently in police court for many years..
His hidden strengths were unbelievable to all of us.. A great mentor.
Rest in Peace our brother in blue,
now that your time on earth is through
We thank you for all the years you served,
without the recognition that you deserved..
Your family and brother officers know and understand,
what it takes to be that policeman ..
So rest in peace our brother in blue,
we will join you when our time is also thru..!!!
Clare & Paul Newman
My mother Ruth was a friend of Betty and Joe and Paul and I fondly remember being at your house when we were young. Out deepest sympathies in the loss of your father.
Candyce Mason
Joe Pickett lived a good and honorable life. He had some great credentials that few can match today.
Doug Nadoraski
I was out of Army 18 days and joined the APD ,I was finally assigned to div 2 Lt Colleo squad he paired me with Joe Joe Calmed me down and taught me patients and respect in which I carried 36 yrs in law enforcement. God Bless you Joe RIP