Obituary of Norman R. Pickett

Norman R. Pickett, 64, formerly of Rome, New York, passed away Monday December 12, 2016 at Bailey Family Hospice Center in St. Augustine, Florida surrounded by his wife, children and siblings after a yearlong battle with pancreatic cancer. Norman "Jimmy" was born on December 22, 1951 in Rome, the son of the late Robert and Eleanor Pickett. He was raised in Rome and graduated from Rome Free Academy in 1969 and attended SUNY Morrisville. Norman then honorably served in the United States Marine Corps in Vietnam from October 6, 1970 - October 25, 1972. Norman was a proud Marine and a patriot - Hoorah. Norman worked at Griffiss Air Force base as a civilian in the transportation department for many years before courageously leaving to successfully pursue a career in the insurance industry as an independent agent. Norman's passion for his work was fueled by all the wonderful relationships he developed with his clients and their families. Norman was a member of Rome Rotary, Rome Chamber of Commerce, Lee Legion Post 1794¬ and the VFW's in Rome and St. Augustine for many years. He was a proud sponsor of the Rome City Amateur golf tournament for 30 years. He is survived by his beloved wife, Linda Ponessa Pickett; a daughter and son in law, Michelle and Rob Shauger; a son Stephen Norman and Amy; grandchildren Matthew, Stephen Jr., Aaron, Emma, Matt, Alex and Katie; brothers Tom and Nia, Darryl, and Michael; sisters April and Dennis Landry; Dawnelle and Angelo Fields; Cindy; Ellie and Lamont O'Shei; Melanie and Wade Riegler; an Aunt Marilyn and Kenneth Spink; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by three brothers Mark, Robert and David. A Mass of Christian Burial, celebrated by Rev. Philip A. Hearn, will be held Monday at 3:00 PM at St. Peter's Church. Burial with military honors will be in St. Peter's Cemetery. Relatives and friends may call at St. Peter's Church, Monday 2 to 3 pm prior to the funeral Mass. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Research, Feed Our Vets or Hospice. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street.