Joseph Charles Pickens, 82, of Lorena, passed away Thursday, September 22, 2011 in a nursing home in McGregor, Texas. Graveside services will be 2:00 p.m., Sunday, September 25, 2011 at Billington Cemetery, Limestone County, with Pastor Nathan Dunman officiating. Visitation will be 2 to 4 p.m., Saturday, September 24, 2011 at Connally/Compton Funeral Directors. Joseph was born October 17, 1928 in Pittsburg, Texas to Thomas Elza and Mary Elizabeth (Tucker) Pickens. Joseph was a veteran of WWII serving with the U.S. Marine Corps. Joseph married the love of his life, Nancy Lou Belcher, on March 1, 1948. Joseph worked as a carpenter, tool and die maker, and a farmer during his life. Joseph is preceded in death by his parents; 2 sons; 2 brothers; and 2 sisters. Those left behind to cherish Joseph's memory are his loving wife, Nancy Belcher Pickens; daughters, Sally Gilleland and husband, David, Susan Bass, and Patricia Ritter and husband, Barry; step-daughter, Margaret Linam; sisters, Virginia Passon, Betty McMillan, and Georgerine Pickens; 14 grandchildren; numerous great grandchildren; and other relatives.