Spc. Heath Pickard of Brushy Creek, Texas was a 2006 graduate of Frankston High School, where he played varsity football and was a member of the Indian Marching Band. He also lettered in football and baseball and was a well-liked student. Heath played baseball and football for the Indians and won the 1999 Treasurers of the Texas Coast Children's Art Contest, that illustrated what youth across the state liked about the coast and what Texas should do to protect it. He enlisted into the Army just days after graduating and was training to be a Ranger. Heath left for Iraq on his 21st birthday as part of forces supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Heath and his wife Sara had recently become first-time parents with the birth of their son, Ethan, in June 2008. He loved the outdoors especially fishing. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Jack Pickard Sr., his sister, Nicole Pickard, cousin, Emily Pickard, his aunt Jackie Pickard, and uncle, Gene Pickard. Heath was killed at age 21 when his unit was hit by mortar fire and rocket-fired grenades while still inside the perimeter during a pre-mission briefing at Forward Operating Base Warhorse at Baquba Airfield.
Army
Bravo Company
1st Battalion
5th Infantry Regiment
1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team
25th Infantry Division
Fort Wainwright, Alaska∼Pickard, Spc. Heath Kayne Quinton Book
Services for Spc. Heath Kayne Quinton Pickard will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, 2008, at the Evangelistic Temple, 3011 N. Loop 256, Palestine, with Dr. Barry Roberts and Rev. George Folmar officiating.�Burial will be at Land of Memory Cemetery, Highway 287 North.�Arrangements are under the direction of Herrington/Land of Memory Funeral Home, Palestine.�
Heath was born Sept. 18, 1987, in Athens.�He was a 2006 graduate of Frankston High School where he lettered in football and baseball.�He was called home to the Lord on Oct. 16, 2008, while serving his country as a member of the 25th Infantry Division in the United States Army in Iraq.�Heath is a true American hero who will not be forgotten.�
He is survived by his wife, Sara Pickard, and son, Ethan Pickard in Fairbanks, Alaska; his grandmother, Margaret Pickard of Brushy Creek; brothers, Chance Pickard of Frankston, and Pfc. Austin Pickard of Frankfurt, Germany; as well as aunts and uncles who loved him and were very proud of him.�
Heath loved the outdoors, especially fishing.�He will be missed by his family and many, many friends.�He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Jack Pickard Sr.; his sister, Nicole Pickard; cousin, Emily Pickard; aunt, Jackie Pickard; and uncle, Gene Pickard.�
Condolences will be 6-8 pm Friday, Oct. 24, 2008, at Herrington/Land of Memory Funeral Home.
Published in the Tyler Morning Telegraph on 10/22/2008
Pickard, Pfc Heath
Services for Pfc. Heath Kayne Quinton Pickard, 21, will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, 2008, at Evangelistic Temple, 3011 N. Loop 256 in Palestine with Dr. Barry Roberts and the Rev. George Folmar officiating. Burial will be at Land of Memory Cemetery on U.S. 287 North. Arrangements are under the direction of Herrington/Land of Memory Funeral Home.Heath was born Sept. 18, 1987, in Athens, Texas. He was a 2006 graduate of Frankston High School where he lettered in football and baseball. He was called home to the Lord on Oct. 16, 2008, while serving his country as a member of the 25th Infantry Division in the United States Army in Iraq. Heath is a true American hero who will not be forgotten.He is survived by his wife, Sara Pickard and son, Ethan Pickard in Fairbanks, Alaska; his grandmother, Margaret Pickard of Brushy Creek; brothers, Chance Pickard of Frankston and Pfc. Austin Pickard of Frankfurt, Germany; as well as aunts and uncles who loved him and were very proud of him.Heath loved the outdoors especially fishing. He will be missed by his family and many, many friends.He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Jack Pickard Sr.; his sister, Nicole Pickard; cousin, Emily Pickard; aunt, Jackie Pickard; and uncle, Gene Pickard.Condolences will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, 2008, at Herrington/Land of Memory Funeral Home.
Published in the Herald-Press on 10/22/2008
Frankston Soldier Killed In Iraq Laid To Rest
Related Link
Photo Gallery
By COSHANDRA DILLARD
Staff Writer
Spc. Heath Kayne Quinton Pickard, 21, of Frankston, was laid to rest Saturday during a moving tribute to his life and dedication to his country. Pickard was a member of the 25th Infantry Division of the United States Army when he died Oct. 16 in Iraq.
At least 60 Patriot Guard Riders, with large American flags in hand, lined the driveway of the Evangelistic Temple in Palestine as they stoically stood guard throughout the service.
Except for the ringing of the replica Liberty Bell at the site, there was stillness and silence as family members and friends received Pickard's body into the church. The bell, flanked by oversized 10 Commandments tablets, rung once every 20 seconds and then every three seconds as members of the 15th Special Troops Battalion from Fort Hood moved Pickard's flag-draped casket into the church.
The service was officiated by Dr. Barry Roberts and the Rev. George Folmar.
Major General Peter Vangjel, Ft. Sill, right, presents Sara Pickard the flag that covered the coffin of her late husband U.S. Army Specialist Heath Kayne Quinton Pickard at the service at the Land of Memory Cemetery in Palestine. Alson pictured, Sara Pickard's mother and baby Ethan Pickard.
Friends, family, classmates, veterans and active soldiers filled the church and quietly remembered Pickard. As the song, "If You're Reading This" by Tim McGraw, began to play, it provoked streams of tears from most of the congregation.
The Rev. Folmar observed 4-month-old Ethan remaining still until the song played, hinting that he was communicating with his father.
Sara Pickard hugs the flag that covered the coffin of her husband, Spc. Pickard after the service.
"Three times, his right hand went straight up," he said. "We have an awesome God."
In addressing Pickard's death, the Rev. Folmar posed the question, "why so soon?"
"I don't know," he said. "I do know that God does not make any mistakes. He's never too late, never too soon and he's never mixed up."
Among those paying tribute to Pickard were two fellow servicemen in his battalion. Near the end of the service, they performed a final roll call as they called out for Pickard.
About one-fourth of the audience was servicemen and servicewomen or veterans. Many of Pickard's graduating classmates were also in attendance.
The Rev. Folmar told the classmates to keep Pickard's memory alive by sharing with Pickard's son what his father meant to them.
Maj. Gen. Peter Vangael, chief of field artillery at Fort Sill in Oklahoma, presented wife, Sara, of Fairbanks, Alaska, with several medals awarded to Pickard, including a Purple Heart and The Bronze Star.
He also told the audience about the sacrifices made by fellow men and women who serve in the military.
"For all of us, we are not that far away from this," Vangael said. "When we put our names on the dotted lines, you got to know what can happen. Giving of oneself is the ultimate sacrifice we can make. The only thing we can do now is honor him. It helps us to remember. He'll receive dozens of medals and citations, and while it doesn't even come close to erasing what you are going through, it's all that we have."
Before taking the five-mile trip to the gravesite, former classmates left red roses with messages attached to them. Again, there was stillness and silence.
The motorcade was saluted by bystanders with American flags off U.S. Highway 287. Again, Patriot Guard Riders encircled at the gravesite during a three-shot rifle volley, which was then proceeded by a taps performance.
Following the ceremonial folding of the flag, it was given to Mrs. Pickard and other flags were given to Pickard's mother, Paula Pickard and grandmother, Margaret Pickard.
The graveside service concluded with the last rings of completion by the replica Liberty Bell, signifying that his life was not taken from him. It is complete, said belladier, David Hall.
Memories of Pickard evoked the same emotion from everyone. He was painted as a young man who loved to make people laugh and was dependable to those he cared about.
"He was a very, very kind guy," said former classmate Nikki Dunlap. "He was always there for anybody. He will be missed. A lot of people loved him."
His mother an
d grandmother both acknowledged his strength as they recounted Pickard being seriously burned at three years old.
"He was strong. Strong in spirit and strong in body," his grandmother said.
She said he was an outdoorsman who loved fishing, hunting and "paintballing."
"He brought happiness. He brought sunshine. He brought laughter and a lot of love," added his mother. "He was always really strong and really brave as a kid."
Pickard is also survived by his brothers, Chance and Austin. Austin is in the Army and will soon return to Frankfurt, Germany, to complete his duty.
Though they were married for only a year and a half, Mrs. Pickard had a chance to love Heath, whom she called "a great father." With the folded American flag clinched in her arms, she stood quietly, yet resiliently as she said her last goodbyes to her young husband.
Pickard's aunt, Fay Redd, helped raise Pickard along with his grandmother. She said the support given to the family over the past week has provided some comfort. She especially thanked the Patriot Guard Riders and the U.S. Army.
"We know that we are not alone and it's an honor to see how much respect and appreciation that people have for the sac
rifice that Heath made," she said.
Army
Bravo Company
1st Battalion
5th Infantry Regiment
1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team
25th Infantry Division
Fort Wainwright, Alaska∼Pickard, Spc. Heath Kayne Quinton Book
Services for Spc. Heath Kayne Quinton Pickard will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, 2008, at the Evangelistic Temple, 3011 N. Loop 256, Palestine, with Dr. Barry Roberts and Rev. George Folmar officiating.�Burial will be at Land of Memory Cemetery, Highway 287 North.�Arrangements are under the direction of Herrington/Land of Memory Funeral Home, Palestine.�
Heath was born Sept. 18, 1987, in Athens.�He was a 2006 graduate of Frankston High School where he lettered in football and baseball.�He was called home to the Lord on Oct. 16, 2008, while serving his country as a member of the 25th Infantry Division in the United States Army in Iraq.�Heath is a true American hero who will not be forgotten.�
He is survived by his wife, Sara Pickard, and son, Ethan Pickard in Fairbanks, Alaska; his grandmother, Margaret Pickard of Brushy Creek; brothers, Chance Pickard of Frankston, and Pfc. Austin Pickard of Frankfurt, Germany; as well as aunts and uncles who loved him and were very proud of him.�
Heath loved the outdoors, especially fishing.�He will be missed by his family and many, many friends.�He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Jack Pickard Sr.; his sister, Nicole Pickard; cousin, Emily Pickard; aunt, Jackie Pickard; and uncle, Gene Pickard.�
Condolences will be 6-8 pm Friday, Oct. 24, 2008, at Herrington/Land of Memory Funeral Home.
Published in the Tyler Morning Telegraph on 10/22/2008
Pickard, Pfc Heath
Services for Pfc. Heath Kayne Quinton Pickard, 21, will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, 2008, at Evangelistic Temple, 3011 N. Loop 256 in Palestine with Dr. Barry Roberts and the Rev. George Folmar officiating. Burial will be at Land of Memory Cemetery on U.S. 287 North. Arrangements are under the direction of Herrington/Land of Memory Funeral Home.Heath was born Sept. 18, 1987, in Athens, Texas. He was a 2006 graduate of Frankston High School where he lettered in football and baseball. He was called home to the Lord on Oct. 16, 2008, while serving his country as a member of the 25th Infantry Division in the United States Army in Iraq. Heath is a true American hero who will not be forgotten.He is survived by his wife, Sara Pickard and son, Ethan Pickard in Fairbanks, Alaska; his grandmother, Margaret Pickard of Brushy Creek; brothers, Chance Pickard of Frankston and Pfc. Austin Pickard of Frankfurt, Germany; as well as aunts and uncles who loved him and were very proud of him.Heath loved the outdoors especially fishing. He will be missed by his family and many, many friends.He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Jack Pickard Sr.; his sister, Nicole Pickard; cousin, Emily Pickard; aunt, Jackie Pickard; and uncle, Gene Pickard.Condolences will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, 2008, at Herrington/Land of Memory Funeral Home.
Published in the Herald-Press on 10/22/2008
Frankston Soldier Killed In Iraq Laid To Rest
Related Link
Photo Gallery
By COSHANDRA DILLARD
Staff Writer
Spc. Heath Kayne Quinton Pickard, 21, of Frankston, was laid to rest Saturday during a moving tribute to his life and dedication to his country. Pickard was a member of the 25th Infantry Division of the United States Army when he died Oct. 16 in Iraq.
At least 60 Patriot Guard Riders, with large American flags in hand, lined the driveway of the Evangelistic Temple in Palestine as they stoically stood guard throughout the service.
Except for the ringing of the replica Liberty Bell at the site, there was stillness and silence as family members and friends received Pickard's body into the church. The bell, flanked by oversized 10 Commandments tablets, rung once every 20 seconds and then every three seconds as members of the 15th Special Troops Battalion from Fort Hood moved Pickard's flag-draped casket into the church.
The service was officiated by Dr. Barry Roberts and the Rev. George Folmar.
Major General Peter Vangjel, Ft. Sill, right, presents Sara Pickard the flag that covered the coffin of her late husband U.S. Army Specialist Heath Kayne Quinton Pickard at the service at the Land of Memory Cemetery in Palestine. Alson pictured, Sara Pickard's mother and baby Ethan Pickard.
Friends, family, classmates, veterans and active soldiers filled the church and quietly remembered Pickard. As the song, "If You're Reading This" by Tim McGraw, began to play, it provoked streams of tears from most of the congregation.
The Rev. Folmar observed 4-month-old Ethan remaining still until the song played, hinting that he was communicating with his father.
Sara Pickard hugs the flag that covered the coffin of her husband, Spc. Pickard after the service.
"Three times, his right hand went straight up," he said. "We have an awesome God."
In addressing Pickard's death, the Rev. Folmar posed the question, "why so soon?"
"I don't know," he said. "I do know that God does not make any mistakes. He's never too late, never too soon and he's never mixed up."
Among those paying tribute to Pickard were two fellow servicemen in his battalion. Near the end of the service, they performed a final roll call as they called out for Pickard.
About one-fourth of the audience was servicemen and servicewomen or veterans. Many of Pickard's graduating classmates were also in attendance.
The Rev. Folmar told the classmates to keep Pickard's memory alive by sharing with Pickard's son what his father meant to them.
Maj. Gen. Peter Vangael, chief of field artillery at Fort Sill in Oklahoma, presented wife, Sara, of Fairbanks, Alaska, with several medals awarded to Pickard, including a Purple Heart and The Bronze Star.
He also told the audience about the sacrifices made by fellow men and women who serve in the military.
"For all of us, we are not that far away from this," Vangael said. "When we put our names on the dotted lines, you got to know what can happen. Giving of oneself is the ultimate sacrifice we can make. The only thing we can do now is honor him. It helps us to remember. He'll receive dozens of medals and citations, and while it doesn't even come close to erasing what you are going through, it's all that we have."
Before taking the five-mile trip to the gravesite, former classmates left red roses with messages attached to them. Again, there was stillness and silence.
The motorcade was saluted by bystanders with American flags off U.S. Highway 287. Again, Patriot Guard Riders encircled at the gravesite during a three-shot rifle volley, which was then proceeded by a taps performance.
Following the ceremonial folding of the flag, it was given to Mrs. Pickard and other flags were given to Pickard's mother, Paula Pickard and grandmother, Margaret Pickard.
The graveside service concluded with the last rings of completion by the replica Liberty Bell, signifying that his life was not taken from him. It is complete, said belladier, David Hall.
Memories of Pickard evoked the same emotion from everyone. He was painted as a young man who loved to make people laugh and was dependable to those he cared about.
"He was a very, very kind guy," said former classmate Nikki Dunlap. "He was always there for anybody. He will be missed. A lot of people loved him."
His mother an
d grandmother both acknowledged his strength as they recounted Pickard being seriously burned at three years old.
"He was strong. Strong in spirit and strong in body," his grandmother said.
She said he was an outdoorsman who loved fishing, hunting and "paintballing."
"He brought happiness. He brought sunshine. He brought laughter and a lot of love," added his mother. "He was always really strong and really brave as a kid."
Pickard is also survived by his brothers, Chance and Austin. Austin is in the Army and will soon return to Frankfurt, Germany, to complete his duty.
Though they were married for only a year and a half, Mrs. Pickard had a chance to love Heath, whom she called "a great father." With the folded American flag clinched in her arms, she stood quietly, yet resiliently as she said her last goodbyes to her young husband.
Pickard's aunt, Fay Redd, helped raise Pickard along with his grandmother. She said the support given to the family over the past week has provided some comfort. She especially thanked the Patriot Guard Riders and the U.S. Army.
"We know that we are not alone and it's an honor to see how much respect and appreciation that people have for the sac
rifice that Heath made," she said.
Spc. Heath Pickard of Brushy Creek, Texas was a 2006 graduate of Frankston High School, where he played varsity football and was a member of the Indian Marching Band. He also lettered in football and baseball and was a well-liked student. Heath played baseball and football for the Indians and won the 1999 Treasurers of the Texas Coast Children's Art Contest, that illustrated what youth across the state liked about the coast and what Texas should do to protect it. He enlisted into the Army just days after graduating and was training to be a Ranger. Heath left for Iraq on his 21st birthday as part of forces supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Heath and his wife Sara had recently become first-time parents with the birth of their son, Ethan, in June 2008. He loved the outdoors especially fishing. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Jack Pickard Sr., his sister, Nicole Pickard, cousin, Emily Pickard, his aunt Jackie Pickard, and uncle, Gene Pickard. Heath was killed at age 21 when his unit was hit by mortar fire and rocket-fired grenades while still inside the perimeter during a pre-mission briefing at Forward Operating Base Warhorse at Baquba Airfield.
Army
Bravo Company
1st Battalion
5th Infantry Regiment
1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team
25th Infantry Division
Fort Wainwright, Alaska∼Pickard, Spc. Heath Kayne Quinton Book
Services for Spc. Heath Kayne Quinton Pickard will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, 2008, at the Evangelistic Temple, 3011 N. Loop 256, Palestine, with Dr. Barry Roberts and Rev. George Folmar officiating.�Burial will be at Land of Memory Cemetery, Highway 287 North.�Arrangements are under the direction of Herrington/Land of Memory Funeral Home, Palestine.�
Heath was born Sept. 18, 1987, in Athens.�He was a 2006 graduate of Frankston High School where he lettered in football and baseball.�He was called home to the Lord on Oct. 16, 2008, while serving his country as a member of the 25th Infantry Division in the United States Army in Iraq.�Heath is a true American hero who will not be forgotten.�
He is survived by his wife, Sara Pickard, and son, Ethan Pickard in Fairbanks, Alaska; his grandmother, Margaret Pickard of Brushy Creek; brothers, Chance Pickard of Frankston, and Pfc. Austin Pickard of Frankfurt, Germany; as well as aunts and uncles who loved him and were very proud of him.�
Heath loved the outdoors, especially fishing.�He will be missed by his family and many, many friends.�He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Jack Pickard Sr.; his sister, Nicole Pickard; cousin, Emily Pickard; aunt, Jackie Pickard; and uncle, Gene Pickard.�
Condolences will be 6-8 pm Friday, Oct. 24, 2008, at Herrington/Land of Memory Funeral Home.
Published in the Tyler Morning Telegraph on 10/22/2008
Pickard, Pfc Heath
Services for Pfc. Heath Kayne Quinton Pickard, 21, will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, 2008, at Evangelistic Temple, 3011 N. Loop 256 in Palestine with Dr. Barry Roberts and the Rev. George Folmar officiating. Burial will be at Land of Memory Cemetery on U.S. 287 North. Arrangements are under the direction of Herrington/Land of Memory Funeral Home.Heath was born Sept. 18, 1987, in Athens, Texas. He was a 2006 graduate of Frankston High School where he lettered in football and baseball. He was called home to the Lord on Oct. 16, 2008, while serving his country as a member of the 25th Infantry Division in the United States Army in Iraq. Heath is a true American hero who will not be forgotten.He is survived by his wife, Sara Pickard and son, Ethan Pickard in Fairbanks, Alaska; his grandmother, Margaret Pickard of Brushy Creek; brothers, Chance Pickard of Frankston and Pfc. Austin Pickard of Frankfurt, Germany; as well as aunts and uncles who loved him and were very proud of him.Heath loved the outdoors especially fishing. He will be missed by his family and many, many friends.He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Jack Pickard Sr.; his sister, Nicole Pickard; cousin, Emily Pickard; aunt, Jackie Pickard; and uncle, Gene Pickard.Condolences will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, 2008, at Herrington/Land of Memory Funeral Home.
Published in the Herald-Press on 10/22/2008
Frankston Soldier Killed In Iraq Laid To Rest
Related Link
Photo Gallery
By COSHANDRA DILLARD
Staff Writer
Spc. Heath Kayne Quinton Pickard, 21, of Frankston, was laid to rest Saturday during a moving tribute to his life and dedication to his country. Pickard was a member of the 25th Infantry Division of the United States Army when he died Oct. 16 in Iraq.
At least 60 Patriot Guard Riders, with large American flags in hand, lined the driveway of the Evangelistic Temple in Palestine as they stoically stood guard throughout the service.
Except for the ringing of the replica Liberty Bell at the site, there was stillness and silence as family members and friends received Pickard's body into the church. The bell, flanked by oversized 10 Commandments tablets, rung once every 20 seconds and then every three seconds as members of the 15th Special Troops Battalion from Fort Hood moved Pickard's flag-draped casket into the church.
The service was officiated by Dr. Barry Roberts and the Rev. George Folmar.
Major General Peter Vangjel, Ft. Sill, right, presents Sara Pickard the flag that covered the coffin of her late husband U.S. Army Specialist Heath Kayne Quinton Pickard at the service at the Land of Memory Cemetery in Palestine. Alson pictured, Sara Pickard's mother and baby Ethan Pickard.
Friends, family, classmates, veterans and active soldiers filled the church and quietly remembered Pickard. As the song, "If You're Reading This" by Tim McGraw, began to play, it provoked streams of tears from most of the congregation.
The Rev. Folmar observed 4-month-old Ethan remaining still until the song played, hinting that he was communicating with his father.
Sara Pickard hugs the flag that covered the coffin of her husband, Spc. Pickard after the service.
"Three times, his right hand went straight up," he said. "We have an awesome God."
In addressing Pickard's death, the Rev. Folmar posed the question, "why so soon?"
"I don't know," he said. "I do know that God does not make any mistakes. He's never too late, never too soon and he's never mixed up."
Among those paying tribute to Pickard were two fellow servicemen in his battalion. Near the end of the service, they performed a final roll call as they called out for Pickard.
About one-fourth of the audience was servicemen and servicewomen or veterans. Many of Pickard's graduating classmates were also in attendance.
The Rev. Folmar told the classmates to keep Pickard's memory alive by sharing with Pickard's son what his father meant to them.
Maj. Gen. Peter Vangael, chief of field artillery at Fort Sill in Oklahoma, presented wife, Sara, of Fairbanks, Alaska, with several medals awarded to Pickard, including a Purple Heart and The Bronze Star.
He also told the audience about the sacrifices made by fellow men and women who serve in the military.
"For all of us, we are not that far away from this," Vangael said. "When we put our names on the dotted lines, you got to know what can happen. Giving of oneself is the ultimate sacrifice we can make. The only thing we can do now is honor him. It helps us to remember. He'll receive dozens of medals and citations, and while it doesn't even come close to erasing what you are going through, it's all that we have."
Before taking the five-mile trip to the gravesite, former classmates left red roses with messages attached to them. Again, there was stillness and silence.
The motorcade was saluted by bystanders with American flags off U.S. Highway 287. Again, Patriot Guard Riders encircled at the gravesite during a three-shot rifle volley, which was then proceeded by a taps performance.
Following the ceremonial folding of the flag, it was given to Mrs. Pickard and other flags were given to Pickard's mother, Paula Pickard and grandmother, Margaret Pickard.
The graveside service concluded with the last rings of completion by the replica Liberty Bell, signifying that his life was not taken from him. It is complete, said belladier, David Hall.
Memories of Pickard evoked the same emotion from everyone. He was painted as a young man who loved to make people laugh and was dependable to those he cared about.
"He was a very, very kind guy," said former classmate Nikki Dunlap. "He was always there for anybody. He will be missed. A lot of people loved him."
His mother an
d grandmother both acknowledged his strength as they recounted Pickard being seriously burned at three years old.
"He was strong. Strong in spirit and strong in body," his grandmother said.
She said he was an outdoorsman who loved fishing, hunting and "paintballing."
"He brought happiness. He brought sunshine. He brought laughter and a lot of love," added his mother. "He was always really strong and really brave as a kid."
Pickard is also survived by his brothers, Chance and Austin. Austin is in the Army and will soon return to Frankfurt, Germany, to complete his duty.
Though they were married for only a year and a half, Mrs. Pickard had a chance to love Heath, whom she called "a great father." With the folded American flag clinched in her arms, she stood quietly, yet resiliently as she said her last goodbyes to her young husband.
Pickard's aunt, Fay Redd, helped raise Pickard along with his grandmother. She said the support given to the family over the past week has provided some comfort. She especially thanked the Patriot Guard Riders and the U.S. Army.
"We know that we are not alone and it's an honor to see how much respect and appreciation that people have for the sac
rifice that Heath made," she said.
Army
Bravo Company
1st Battalion
5th Infantry Regiment
1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team
25th Infantry Division
Fort Wainwright, Alaska∼Pickard, Spc. Heath Kayne Quinton Book
Services for Spc. Heath Kayne Quinton Pickard will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, 2008, at the Evangelistic Temple, 3011 N. Loop 256, Palestine, with Dr. Barry Roberts and Rev. George Folmar officiating.�Burial will be at Land of Memory Cemetery, Highway 287 North.�Arrangements are under the direction of Herrington/Land of Memory Funeral Home, Palestine.�
Heath was born Sept. 18, 1987, in Athens.�He was a 2006 graduate of Frankston High School where he lettered in football and baseball.�He was called home to the Lord on Oct. 16, 2008, while serving his country as a member of the 25th Infantry Division in the United States Army in Iraq.�Heath is a true American hero who will not be forgotten.�
He is survived by his wife, Sara Pickard, and son, Ethan Pickard in Fairbanks, Alaska; his grandmother, Margaret Pickard of Brushy Creek; brothers, Chance Pickard of Frankston, and Pfc. Austin Pickard of Frankfurt, Germany; as well as aunts and uncles who loved him and were very proud of him.�
Heath loved the outdoors, especially fishing.�He will be missed by his family and many, many friends.�He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Jack Pickard Sr.; his sister, Nicole Pickard; cousin, Emily Pickard; aunt, Jackie Pickard; and uncle, Gene Pickard.�
Condolences will be 6-8 pm Friday, Oct. 24, 2008, at Herrington/Land of Memory Funeral Home.
Published in the Tyler Morning Telegraph on 10/22/2008
Pickard, Pfc Heath
Services for Pfc. Heath Kayne Quinton Pickard, 21, will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, 2008, at Evangelistic Temple, 3011 N. Loop 256 in Palestine with Dr. Barry Roberts and the Rev. George Folmar officiating. Burial will be at Land of Memory Cemetery on U.S. 287 North. Arrangements are under the direction of Herrington/Land of Memory Funeral Home.Heath was born Sept. 18, 1987, in Athens, Texas. He was a 2006 graduate of Frankston High School where he lettered in football and baseball. He was called home to the Lord on Oct. 16, 2008, while serving his country as a member of the 25th Infantry Division in the United States Army in Iraq. Heath is a true American hero who will not be forgotten.He is survived by his wife, Sara Pickard and son, Ethan Pickard in Fairbanks, Alaska; his grandmother, Margaret Pickard of Brushy Creek; brothers, Chance Pickard of Frankston and Pfc. Austin Pickard of Frankfurt, Germany; as well as aunts and uncles who loved him and were very proud of him.Heath loved the outdoors especially fishing. He will be missed by his family and many, many friends.He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Jack Pickard Sr.; his sister, Nicole Pickard; cousin, Emily Pickard; aunt, Jackie Pickard; and uncle, Gene Pickard.Condolences will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, 2008, at Herrington/Land of Memory Funeral Home.
Published in the Herald-Press on 10/22/2008
Frankston Soldier Killed In Iraq Laid To Rest
Related Link
Photo Gallery
By COSHANDRA DILLARD
Staff Writer
Spc. Heath Kayne Quinton Pickard, 21, of Frankston, was laid to rest Saturday during a moving tribute to his life and dedication to his country. Pickard was a member of the 25th Infantry Division of the United States Army when he died Oct. 16 in Iraq.
At least 60 Patriot Guard Riders, with large American flags in hand, lined the driveway of the Evangelistic Temple in Palestine as they stoically stood guard throughout the service.
Except for the ringing of the replica Liberty Bell at the site, there was stillness and silence as family members and friends received Pickard's body into the church. The bell, flanked by oversized 10 Commandments tablets, rung once every 20 seconds and then every three seconds as members of the 15th Special Troops Battalion from Fort Hood moved Pickard's flag-draped casket into the church.
The service was officiated by Dr. Barry Roberts and the Rev. George Folmar.
Major General Peter Vangjel, Ft. Sill, right, presents Sara Pickard the flag that covered the coffin of her late husband U.S. Army Specialist Heath Kayne Quinton Pickard at the service at the Land of Memory Cemetery in Palestine. Alson pictured, Sara Pickard's mother and baby Ethan Pickard.
Friends, family, classmates, veterans and active soldiers filled the church and quietly remembered Pickard. As the song, "If You're Reading This" by Tim McGraw, began to play, it provoked streams of tears from most of the congregation.
The Rev. Folmar observed 4-month-old Ethan remaining still until the song played, hinting that he was communicating with his father.
Sara Pickard hugs the flag that covered the coffin of her husband, Spc. Pickard after the service.
"Three times, his right hand went straight up," he said. "We have an awesome God."
In addressing Pickard's death, the Rev. Folmar posed the question, "why so soon?"
"I don't know," he said. "I do know that God does not make any mistakes. He's never too late, never too soon and he's never mixed up."
Among those paying tribute to Pickard were two fellow servicemen in his battalion. Near the end of the service, they performed a final roll call as they called out for Pickard.
About one-fourth of the audience was servicemen and servicewomen or veterans. Many of Pickard's graduating classmates were also in attendance.
The Rev. Folmar told the classmates to keep Pickard's memory alive by sharing with Pickard's son what his father meant to them.
Maj. Gen. Peter Vangael, chief of field artillery at Fort Sill in Oklahoma, presented wife, Sara, of Fairbanks, Alaska, with several medals awarded to Pickard, including a Purple Heart and The Bronze Star.
He also told the audience about the sacrifices made by fellow men and women who serve in the military.
"For all of us, we are not that far away from this," Vangael said. "When we put our names on the dotted lines, you got to know what can happen. Giving of oneself is the ultimate sacrifice we can make. The only thing we can do now is honor him. It helps us to remember. He'll receive dozens of medals and citations, and while it doesn't even come close to erasing what you are going through, it's all that we have."
Before taking the five-mile trip to the gravesite, former classmates left red roses with messages attached to them. Again, there was stillness and silence.
The motorcade was saluted by bystanders with American flags off U.S. Highway 287. Again, Patriot Guard Riders encircled at the gravesite during a three-shot rifle volley, which was then proceeded by a taps performance.
Following the ceremonial folding of the flag, it was given to Mrs. Pickard and other flags were given to Pickard's mother, Paula Pickard and grandmother, Margaret Pickard.
The graveside service concluded with the last rings of completion by the replica Liberty Bell, signifying that his life was not taken from him. It is complete, said belladier, David Hall.
Memories of Pickard evoked the same emotion from everyone. He was painted as a young man who loved to make people laugh and was dependable to those he cared about.
"He was a very, very kind guy," said former classmate Nikki Dunlap. "He was always there for anybody. He will be missed. A lot of people loved him."
His mother an
d grandmother both acknowledged his strength as they recounted Pickard being seriously burned at three years old.
"He was strong. Strong in spirit and strong in body," his grandmother said.
She said he was an outdoorsman who loved fishing, hunting and "paintballing."
"He brought happiness. He brought sunshine. He brought laughter and a lot of love," added his mother. "He was always really strong and really brave as a kid."
Pickard is also survived by his brothers, Chance and Austin. Austin is in the Army and will soon return to Frankfurt, Germany, to complete his duty.
Though they were married for only a year and a half, Mrs. Pickard had a chance to love Heath, whom she called "a great father." With the folded American flag clinched in her arms, she stood quietly, yet resiliently as she said her last goodbyes to her young husband.
Pickard's aunt, Fay Redd, helped raise Pickard along with his grandmother. She said the support given to the family over the past week has provided some comfort. She especially thanked the Patriot Guard Riders and the U.S. Army.
"We know that we are not alone and it's an honor to see how much respect and appreciation that people have for the sac
rifice that Heath made," she said.
