Fred Pickens Jr., 77, of Newport News, passed away on January 24, 2023 after a valiant battle with diabetes-related symptoms.

Fred was born on August 15, 1945 to Dorothy and Fred Pickens, Sr. in Brooklyn, New York. After graduating from Copiague High School in 1964, he enlisted in the Army from 1965 to 1967. He was stationed at Cam Ranh Bay in South Vietnam as an engineer. In 1964, Fred met Marlene, and they wed in 1968, going on to have 3 children, Audrey, Chris, and Jeff. After retiring in 2006, Fred spent his time gardening and rooting for the Steelers.

Fred was predeceased by his parents, Fred Sr. and Dorothy. He is survived by his wife, Marlene; his children, Audrey, Chris, and Jeff Pickens; and his three grandchildren, Alyssa, Candis, and Caleb Pickens.

Visitation will begin at 1 PM on Friday, February 3, 2023 at W. J. Smith & Son Funeral Home, with a funeral service immediately following at 2 PM. Entombment will be afterwards in Peninsula Memorial Park.