Albert Arthur Pickett

Albert Arthur Pickett, 94, of Oak Island, formerly of Siler City, died Thursday, February 9, 2012 at New Hanover Regional Hospital, Wilmington. Mr. Pickett was born in Chatham County on September 16, 1917 the son of Oran and Martha Estridge Pickett. He was an Army veteran of WW II. He served 33 months and seven days in combat, mostly under the command of General George Patton. He was a member of the famed Second Armored Division, Hell on Wheels one of the most decorated and bravest divisions in America during WW II. Mr. Pickett fought in seven battles - Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes, Central Europe, Sicily and Algeria-French Morocco. He was awarded the Bronze Star, Good Conduct Medal, American Defense Service Medal and the EAMET Campaign Medal with Seven Bronze Service Stars. He was a member of First Wesleyan Church of Siler City. He retired from Selig Manufacturing Company, Siler City, NC. Albert was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Alma Phillips, Wanda Jordan, Lula Butler, Leona Fields, Hazel Campbell, Laura Harper, Mozelle Pickett and a brother, Clyde Pickett. He is survived by his wife of 65 years: Mary Frances Blair Pickett; one daughter: Paula Peele and husband, Robert of Oak Island, NC; one sister, Faye Williams of Siler City, NC; two grandchildren, Michael Stout "Ol Buddy" of Greensboro and Alicia Stout "Sweet Girl" and fiancé,' Neil Cartrett of Charlotte and adopted grandson, Dennis Diegel of Greensboro. He is also survived by his loving dogs, Charlie and Shorty, several grand dogs and a grand cat. Albert had a wonderful green thumb and still gardened until just a couple of years ago. He loved sharing his vegetables with others. He also loved to fish and talk fish and war stories on the Oak Island Pier. He was an avid fan of the Washington Redskins, the Atlanta Braves and the Carolina Panthers. The family will receive friends Sunday, February 12, 2012 from 6:00-7:30 p.m. at Smith & Buckner Funeral Home, 230 North Second Avenue, Siler City, NC. The funeral will be Monday, February 13, 2012 at 2:00 PM at First Wesleyan Church, 608 N. 3rd Ave., Siler City with Dr. Rev. Eddie McClure officiating. Burial will follow in Oakwood Cemetery with military rites by the Randolph County Honor Guard. Memorials may be made to Lower Cape Fear Hospice or any Veterans Charity. Online condolences may be made at www.pughfuneralhome.com.