James Larry Pickel

    James Larry Pickel, age 81 of Jonesboro, passed away peacefully on February 14, 2026 at Mercy Hospital St. Louis. He was born on June 27, 1944 in Anna, the son of John C. Pickel and Juanita (Miller) Pickel. He lived his entire life on the family farm he dearly loved, where his deep connection to the land shaped who he was. A lifelong outdoorsman, James could identify nearly every tree, mushroom, and plant on the property and took great pride in caring for it. No August 16, 1964, James married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Sharen Schlenker. Together they shared over six decades of marriage, building a life rooted in hard work, devotion, and family. James was a dedicated provider and a man of quiet strength who showed his love through action.

    James is survived by his loving wife, Sharen Pickel; son, Eric Pickel; daughter, Carrie (John) Barnett; cherished grandchildren, Owen Pickel, Axel Barnett, and Lily Barnett; brother, John (Shelby) Pickel; sister, Jane (John) Womick; brother, David (Beverly) Pickel; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, John C. and Juanita Pickel.

    For 40 years, James was a member of the Teamsters Union, working as a concrete truck driver, a career that reflected his strong work ethic and reliability. When he wasn’t working, he could often be found fishing, tending to his large garden, cutting wood, rock hunting for arrowheads, or later in life, enjoying the peaceful craft of wood carving. Nearly every weekend was spent with family outdoors—fishing, gardening, or simply enjoying time together. James will be remembered as a hardworking man, a devoted husband and father, a loving grandfather, and a true steward of the land he called home

    Memorial services for James Larry Pickel will be held at 3:00 pm Friday, February 20, 2026 at Kornthal Church with Bill Littrell officiating. Family and friends may gather from 2:00 pm until the service time at 3:00 pm Friday, February 20, 2026 at the church. Rendleman and Hileman Funeral Home in Anna is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Kornthal Church. Envelopes will be available at the church and at Rendleman and Hileman Funeral Home.