John Wyatt Pickett of Clayhatchee, AL, passed away Saturday, March 28, 2026, at his home surrounded by family. He was 78.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at Searcy Funeral Home and Crematory Chapel with William Mansfield officiating. Burial will follow with military honors at Shiloh Cemetery with Searcy Funeral Home and Crematory directing. The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM until service time.

John honorably served his country in the United States Army as a flight engineer, including service during the Vietnam War. Following his military career, he continued his work in aviation, retiring from Army Fleet Support in avionics. A hardworking man who never shied away from a project, John found great joy in working with his hands—whether riding his motorcycles, building with wood, or spending time outdoors on his tractor. His passion for aviation extended beyond his career, as he even built an airplane runway on his property and cherished time working his experimental aircraft.

Above all, John loved his family and treasured the moments he spent with them, especially the time shared with his son. He had a deep appreciation for music and could often be found playing the banjo or guitar. A faithful member of Daleville Assembly of God Church, John loved serving Jesus and living out his faith. He also enjoyed shooting sports and was a proud gun enthusiast. John will be remembered for his strong work ethic, adventurous spirit, and the love he had for his family, his faith, and the life he built.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Johnny Pickett and Willine Godwin; brother, Willie Paul Pickett; step-brother, Steve Jones.

Survivors include his wife of 57 years Von Pickett, Clayhatchee, AL; two sons, Anthony Pickett (Wendy), Enterprise, AL, Jonathan “J.P.” Pickett (Joni), Clayhatchee, AL; four grandchildren, Hunter Pickett, Nathan Pickett, Jocelyn Pickett, Summer Pickett; three great-grandchildren; two sisters, Elaine Davis (Marshall), Valley Grande, AL, Denise Andrews (Danny), Clayhatchee, AL; two brothers, Dan Pickett, Idaho, Stanley Jones (Cheryl), Auburn, AL; along with numerous nieces and nephews.