Richard Heth Pickett, 93, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2026, surrounded by his family in Ocala, Florida.
Richard was born in Ocala on December 16, 1932, to Heth and Inez Pickett, and spent his entire life in this community. He graduated from Ocala High School in 1950 and went on to inherit his father’s business, Pickett’s Standard Service Station, where he worked until he sold the station and retired in 1997. The full-service station operated for 63 years and eventually transitioned into a Chevron station before shutting its doors. He married his beloved wife, Dorothy, in 1957, and together they raised three children, Cathryn Suzanne, Bruce, and Angela.
He is survived by his children, Suzanne Austin (Michael), Bruce Pickett, Angela Wade (Richard), 15 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Dorothy W. Pickett.
Richard was known for being the ultimate University of Florida Gator Football Fan. He was present at every home game for over 70 years and also traveled to the out-of-town games for over 50 years. One of the highlights of his Florida Football obsession was when he got to meet coach Steve Spurrier. He was recognized by the Florida Gator football organization at one of the games for his many years of loyal attendance.
He always enjoyed the relationships he built with his customers at the service station over the years, and many became like family. He was also fond of keeping up with high school classmates through attending their periodic reunion gatherings through the years.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., at Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services, 910 East Silver Springs Boulevard, Ocala, Florida, with funeral service following at 11:00 a.m.