Madeline C. Pickens

     Madeline Pickens was called home to heaven on April 22, 2026 where she was joyfully reunited with many of her cherished loved ones. She lived a life rich in love, purpose, and devotion—her “dash” truly full beyond measure.

     Born on December 15, 1939 in Lanesborough, Massachusetts Madeline was the daughter of Wyatt and Helena Maynard. She graduated from Pittsfield High School, Class of 1957, and soon after married Alvinza M. Pickens Jr. As an Air Force wife, she embraced a life of adventure and service, living in California, New Jersey, and ultimately settling at Dover Air Force Base where Abe retired after serving for 20 years and Delaware is where they built their home and lasting roots.

     Madeline was a woman of remarkable strength, warmth, and grace. She was the heart of her family—the steady presence who held everyone together with love, wisdom, and unwavering care. She found joy in life’s simple and meaningful moments: camping with friends and family, hanging laundry in the fresh air, listening to country and worship music, and spending time in the mountains of Massachusetts, which she held especially dear. She loved four-wheeling, gardening, canning, grilling, mowing the lawn, swimming, and traveling across the country with her beloved husband in their fifth wheel pulled by their dually. Together, they visited all 50 states, celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary with a memorable Alaskan cruise. Wherever they went, they cherished time spent with family and friends.

     Madeline worked for many years at Scott Paper (Kimberly-Clark), where she built a career she was proud of before enjoying a well-earned retirement.

    She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Alvinza M. Pickens Jr.; her daughter Pamela J. Saroglia; her son Richard D. Pickens Sr.; her daughter-in-law Connie M. Pickens; and her siblings: Robert Maynard, Virginia Culver, Barbara Hoffman, and Richard Maynard.

     She leaves behind a legacy of love through her family: her sons Alvinza Pickens III (Beverly) and Wayne Pickens (Melissa); her cherished niece Nanette Bragdon-Palko; and many beloved nieces and nephews. She was a proud grandmother to Lorraine Clark-DeLeon (Chatchai), Buster Roberts (Heather), Richie Pickens Jr., Christina Berry (Billy), Johnathan Pickens, and Brie-Anna Pickens. Her great-grandchildren include Mariah Brice (Lorenzo), Ace Clark, Noah, Madeline, Alvinza, and Jackson Pickens, as well as Tauren and Luca Berry. She was also blessed with great-great-grandchildren Alani, Micah, and Mila Brice, along with many other extended family members who loved her dearly.

     Madeline shared a special bond with her cousins Bruce Culver and Kay Gentile, and treasured a lifelong friendship with Margie Quagliano. Together, they shared many joyful moments, including dancing and time spent with their families.

     She remained active in her community, having lunch with the ladies in the Historical Vintage Car Club of Delaware and enjoying music at the Little Opry House in Petersburg. In her final days, Madeline continued to serve others with a generous heart, volunteering at her church, Lebanon Wesleyan Church, and at the local food bank. She also lovingly cared for Berniece, a dear friend from church.

     A Celebration of Madeline’s life will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, May 8. 2026 at Pippin Funeral Home, 119 W. Camden Wyoming Avenue, Wyoming, DE 19934 where friends may visit with the family from 10:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. Burial will be private. Memorial contributions may be made to Lebanon Wesleyan Church, 1138 Sorghum Mill Road, Dover, Delaware 19901. Online condolences may be made via www.pippinfuneralhome.com. 

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