James E. Pickering

James E. Pickering, 87, of Harrisburg, Illinois passed away December 13, 2023. James was born to Hazel (Groce) and Otis Pickering in Pontiac, Michigan along with seven sisters. After returning from the Korean war Jim purchased the old Homestead of his grandparents in Harrisburg, Illinois and moved his family from Michigan. While he spent some of his time working at the Harrisburg Cap factory, Bryant’s Market and the local coal mines, his true passion was the farm, his family and his faith. As an acting preacher he fed the homeless, offered shelter, youth programs and performed marriages. James was stubborn as a mule and fended off death several times during his lifetime. This time he was ready to meet his maker. We were blessed to have him accompany us on this journey. He is survived by his wife Becky Pickering, daughter Pamelia (Pickering) Jobes/Bill Jobes (husband), children Joshua Berlin/Nicole (wife), Jesse Berlin and Paige (Berlin) Petts/Travis (husband). His sons James Pickering/Rene (wife), children Stephanie (Pickering) Moya/Augustine (husband) and Reanna Pickering. Richard Pickering/ Shelley Richards, mother of Brandon, Ricky, Kristina and Rishell. Robert Pickering/Karen (wife). Rodney Pickering/Darlene (wife), children Christopher Owens, Zachery Pickering, Jeffery, Mary and Kevin Celestino. Randy Pickering, his children Shannon and Randall. Stepdaughters Tiffany Davis/Jeremy (husband), children Tristin, Tanner and Sarah. Eva Howard/Jonas (husband), children Hunter, Noah, Caleb and Mallorie. Rachel Novy. Great grandchildren: Lincoln, Caroline, Colton and Bailey Berlin, Austin and Saveena Moya. Noah, Leah, Gracie and Remington Pickering, Kyrian and Kyleena Copher, Kansas Larson, Skylar Pickering, Harold Steven Cannon, Mortikai and Sydnee Celestino, Kayce Helmuth, Amil Anderson. Mazie Tillery, Malhayla and Kenny Novy, Alyssa Davidson. And two sisters, Donna Stephens and Minnie Hill. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, December 30, 2023 at 3p.m. in Honey Comb Church of God, 99 Karbers Ridge Road, Herod, IL. Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family via the website www.colonialterracefuneralhome.com