Samuel David Pickett, 76
November 7, 1949 – September 15, 2026
Samuel David Pickett passed away in the early morning hours of September 15, 2026, at the age of 76.
Known to those around him as David, “Squire,” or Dr. Pickett, he lived an accomplished and deeply human life.
David served his country during the Vietnam War as a member of the 4th Infantry Division, an experience that shaped him profoundly. After returning stateside, he earned his law degree from Mississippi College and founded Pickett & Associates in Jackson, Mississippi, where he practiced for many years. He possessed a formidable command of language, a sharp legal mind, and an even sharper wit.
Away from his work, David loved fly fishing, cooking, pipe smoking, collecting pocket watches, and studying history. He was intelligent and curious, funny and stubborn, charming and difficult. Those who loved him knew all of these things could be true at once.
David struggled for many years with alcohol use disorder, which ultimately took his life through complications of cirrhosis. His son chooses to speak openly about this, not in judgment or because it defines the man he was, but because hiding the realities of addiction helps no one.
If you are struggling with addiction, please know this: your life is worth more than the contents of a bottle. There are people who very much want to keep you on this earth. There is a beautiful life on the other side of addiction, and it is worth living. Seek help while there is still time. Help is available through the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357, free and confidential, 24 hours a day.
David is survived by his devoted son and daughter-in-law, his six grandchildren, and a lifetime of memories that will live on in others for many years to come.
No public services are planned at this time. Associated Family Funeral Home of Tupelo is honored to serve the Pickett family during their time of loss.
Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.
