CONFIRMED: Otis Pickens, Veteran US Air Force (43-25) 25 FEB 25

The family of Mr. Otis Pickens, a US Air Force Veteran, requests the presence and participation of the San Antonio Patriot Guard at the services and graveside rendering of military honors of their loved one. We are honored to accept this invitation.
Otis Mark Pickens passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, February 2, 2025, in the company of his loving wife, Gaye, after a long battle with heart disease. Otis was born in Claremore, Oklahoma, on Monday, June 1, 1959, to parents Otis Martin Pickens and Delores Maxine Gage Pickens.
Otis was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force, where he worked in Bomb Navigation Systems. During his service, he earned multiple accolades, including the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, the Longevity Service Award Ribbon with one device, the NCO Professional Military Education Ribbon, and the Air Force Training Ribbon.
Otis graduated from Tabor College with a Bachelor’s degree in Christian Ministry, which he used to help coordinate small group ministries and lead Sunday school classes. Otis had an insatiable curiosity and a knack for precision. He took great pride in gunsmithing and ammo reloading, had an eye for capturing life’s moments through photography, and was always drawn to the ever-evolving world of technology.
Otis was preceded in death by his father, Otis Martin Pickens; his mother, Delores Maxine Shirley; his sister, Teresa Lynn Miller; his son, Ryan Mark Pickens; and his brother, Ronald Martin Pickens.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Gaye Lynn Pickens; his son, Austin Willems, and his wife, Amanda; his son, Tyler Willems; and his daughter, Alicia McFerrin, and her husband, Joshua. He was a proud grandfather to Sierra, Kaylie, Hannah, Allycia, Emma, Natalia, Natalie, Kailie, and Gage, and a loving great-grandfather to Izaiah and Journey. He is also survived by his brother, Randall “Bus” Pickens, and his wife, Alice; his dear sister-in-law, Jean Alice Pickens; as well as a multitude of beloved nieces, nephews, and friends. Additionally, he will be deeply missed by his cherished four-legged companions, Dash, and Polly.

WEATHER: Hi 74 / Lo 53, 0 % Chance of Rain, 90 % Humidity, Wind: 3 mph SSW

REQUESTOR:  Alicia McFerrin, Daughter

STAGING:  11:00 am, Tuesday, February 25, 2025
First Baptist Church of Universal City
1401 Pat Booker Road
Universal City, Texas 78148
https://goo.gl/maps/pPk2YQaYjdhLgYRC9

BRIEFING:  11:15 am

SERVICE:  12:00 pm
First Baptist Church of Universal City
1401 Pat Booker Road
Universal City, Texas 78148
https://goo.gl/maps/pPk2YQaYjdhLgYRC9

KSU:  1:00 pm (Semper Gumby) (After the Honor Line – No LEO procession)

INTERMENT:   2:00 pm – Shelter #4 (Call to Verify)
Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery
1520 Harry Wurzbach Road
San Antonio, Texas 78209
https://goo.gl/maps/kQ68VALuUAptXpgS9

RC:   Bob “Pizza Man” Johnson
bobtxpgr@gmail.com

FC:   Rich “Richie Rich” Pachecano
rich@pachecano.net

1. Iron horses if you can, cages are always welcome and appreciated and unless under special circumstances not allowed in processions. You do not have to have a motorcycle to participate in honoring our veterans.

2. Safety First: Please remember to properly hydrate (including the night before) before any outdoor activity and to dress appropriately. Do not hesitate to take a break at any time if you feel you need to get in the shade or get indoors and always ask for help at any time. Also please do not forget your sun screen.

3. Please remember that our mission is to stand tall and silent, and with honor and. NO TALKING, SMOKING, CHEWING OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS, OR CELL PHONE USE IN THE FLAG LINE!