James "Jim" Pickens

James "Jim" W. Pickens, age 88, passed away peacefully on September 15^th, 2023, at home surrounded by his wife of 68 years and 3 children.

Jim was born on August 3rd, 1935, to Basil and Leah Pickens in Missoula, Montana. This is where he resided throughout his life attending Willard Grade School and Missoula County High School. It was in high school that he met the love of his life Audrey (Parent) and was an outstanding athlete participating in the Montana East-West Shrine game in 1954.

Jim worked at the White Pine and Sash for many years. Jim, also known as Papa, Zima, or Grandpa Pickens, was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was an avid Griz fan and enjoyed traveling with his wife and lifelong friends to Arizona and countless camping trips to the lake. Jim also enjoyed all the adventures that came with family vacations, grandchildren in sports, and any other excursion that he could.

Jim will always be remembered for his compassion, generosity, and sense of humor. Anyone who was lucky enough to spend time with Jim and was part of the many memories that were created, knows just how much he will be missed. He was adored and cherished by his family and friends.

Jim is survived by his wife Audrey, sister Darlene (McCormick), daughters Kim & Kathy (Kenton), son Mike (Lisa), Grandchildren Derek (Jessica), Dustin (Dani), Jessica & Jamie and great-grandchildren Bodie & Tripp and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday October 28^th at 11 AM at Garden City Funeral Home 1705 West Broadway, Missoula, MT 59808.

It was Jim’s wish is that memorial tributes be made in the form of charitable donations to

Providence St. Patrick’s Heart Institute https://give.providence.org/montana?_ga=2.50839529.1552513567.1695502240-1939732041.1695502240   

or

Hospice Partners in Home Care of Missoula, Mt. https://partnersinhomecare.org/donation-page/