Harold Pickett

Harold Gene Pickett passed away with family by his side at his home in Kerrville on March 2, 2023.

He was born to Harold and Lota Goodnight Pickett on November 26,1931, in Proctor, Texas. He graduated from high school in Gunter, Texas, and moved to Austin to enroll at UT, where he completed his undergraduate requirements. Thereupon, he was admitted to the       UT School of Dentistry in Houston. He met Harriet Ann Raymer in a summer civics class and that was the start of a wonderful, exciting, purposeful, productive, and socially conscious marriage, lasting 66 years until Harriet’s death in 2020. Harold practiced dentistry for over 40 years, beginning as an army dentist during the Korean War. Upon his return, he and Harriet lived in San Antonio where they grew their family as well as Harold’s dental practice. By all accounts, he was an excellent and conscientious dentist, and he loved his work! He loved hobbies as well, such as sailing boats, classic car restoration, and traveling. In 2002, they retired to Kerrville.

Harold was a man of great integrity—living his values. He gave his wife and six children unconditional love and unfailing support. One of his many selfless endeavors was taking this large family on several weeks-long camping trips, which really exemplified his tireless love for them. He tried to see the goodness in all and believed that all persons are equal. In fact, he co-sponsored the first Black dentist to be admitted to the San Antonio District Dental Society, though it was not a popular move at the time. Harold had a great character, full of gratitude, a sense of humor, the ability to face adversity and challenge with grace, and open-mindedness rather than judgement.

He is survived by his six children—Suzanna Garza Royston (Jonathan), Amanda Herring, Melanie Pickett, Hal Pickett (Carolyn), Merritt Pickett, and Abby Dudley (Leonard); his seven grandchildren—Nicole (Peter), Barrett, Megan (Kyle), Abe, Bryan (Felicia), Mitchell (Taylor), and Emily (Raymond); and his three great-grandchildren (Ramón, Paisley, and Colette). Harold is also survived by three cousins—Bob Mahan, Lee and John Pickett—as well as his brother-in-law, Lewis Raymer.

The family will be forever grateful for daughter Melanie’s courageous, diligent, and loving care of our father in the home that they shared.

Though Harold suffered from dementia in his later years, his sweet soul and oftentimes sense of humor continued to shine through to inspire us all. He will be missed. He was the best dad ever…was, is, and always will be our role model.

Finally, donations to The Carter Center, or your favorite charity, would greatly honor his memory.

A celebration of life is planned for a later date.

Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of the professionals at Kerrville Funeral Home (830) 895-5111.