Anna Ruth “Ann” Pickard passed away on Friday, January 10, 2025 at the age of 96 after recently celebrating her birthday on November 27, 2024. Ann remained very active and sharp of mind in her home. She was born in Bethel, Missouri on November 27, 1928 to William Kessler and Annie Grace (Wharton) Thomas. She was united in marriage to Willard E. “Bill” Pickard on March 22, 1947.
Ann formerly worked at the Holiday Inn as a hostess and cashier, and was last employed at the Kings Daughters and Sons home. She was a faithful member at the First Christian Church and attended church regularly. She was a member of the Mississippi Mums Red Hat Society. She loved playing cards with her friends at Rose Michael Gardens, and she cherished their friendship.
She was well known to her family for her sugar cookies, pea salad, ham balls, and chicken salad.
She was a graduate of Fort Madison High School. She was a longtime member of Order of Eastern Star, E.C. Blackman Chapter #306, Burlington, Iowa.
She is survived by her children: Debbie McElderry, Carol (Dan) Kelley, and Greg Pickard; her grandchildren: Shane (Kim) Kelley, Robyn (Brian) Hamilton, Heather Kelley, Brandon McElderry and Kristina Pickard (Patrick O’Connor); five great- grandchildren: Hunter Kelley (Tatiana Matta, and Taj and Kai), Chase (Hailey) Brown, Aiden Kelley, Charlotte Kelley, and Raylan O’Connor; one great great grandchild Oliver Brown. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and daughter-in-law Monika Pickard.
Her family will greet friends from 9:30 - 10:30 am Saturday, January 18, 2025 at the Barr Memorial Chapel, Fort Madison. Memorial services will follow and begin at 10:30 am at the Barr Memorial Chapel, with Pastor Leslie Dalstra officiating. Burial will be at the Claypoole Cemetery, Wever, Iowa. A memorial has been established for the Shriners Children’s Hospital, contributions may be made at the Barr Memorial Chapel, Fort Madison. Online condolences to the Pickard Family may be made from the Barr Memorial Chapel, www.barrmemorialchapel.com.
