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He was an avid hunter and fisherman—nothing made him happier than heading out to hunt hogs or spend the day fishing.

Richard Lee Pickens, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2026, in Waco, Texas, at the age of 83. Richard’s journey began in the most unforgettable of ways—he was born in the back seat of a car in Buffalo, Texas, on November 14, 1942, as the family couldn’t quite make it to the hospital in time. From that moment on, his life was marked by stories, both extraordinary and everyday, that he shared with the community he dearly loved and called home his entire life.

Richard was a man of depth and many talents—a true jack of all trades, but with a heart that knew no limits. Though he spent most of his life working as a logger, there was scarcely a job or challenge that he did not meet with ingenuity and determination. His hands were those of a working man: strong from years in the field, yet gentle in their care for family, friends, and neighbors alike.

Beyond his work, Richard’s spirit was most alive in the outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman—nothing made him happier than heading out to hunt hogs or spend the day fishing. His lovingly tended vegetable garden bore witness to his patience and pride, supplying not only his table but also countless stories and precious moments with those he cherished. Family was the heartbeat of his days; he especially delighted in rocking the babies and gathering loved ones for reunions and celebrations, filling the air with laughter, storytelling, and love.

Among Richard’s most profound accomplishments was his unwavering faith. He was ordained as a minister and helped establish the Upper Room Church, now known as Celebration Church. In leading this congregation, he inspired many through his humility, wisdom, and compassion—qualities that defined not only his service to God, but also his everyday interactions.

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Family was the heartbeat of his days; he especially delighted in rocking the babies and gathering loved ones for reunions and celebrations, filling the air with laughter, storytelling, and love.

Richard’s immense legacy is carried forward by those he leaves behind. He is survived by his devoted wife, Maedell Metzgar Pickens of Fairfield, who stood by his side through life’s many seasons. His memory will be treasured by his children: son, Kurt Pickens (Brandy Mutschler) of Buffalo; daughter, Nedra Pickens of Buffalo; and step-sons, Jason Metzgar (Deanna) and Jarrod Metzgar (Heather), both of Waco. His brother, Mike Pickens (Becky) of Buffalo, also survives him, as well as a special nephew, Jeff Boykin of Valley View.  The joy of Richard’s later years was magnified by his grandchildren: Ryan Pickens (Deanna) of Buffalo, Mikayla Stains (Wesley) of Centerville, Brenton Pickens (Holly) of Buffalo, Tulley Pickens (Maci) of Buffalo, BreAnna Nash (Hayden) of Leona, Raylee Moore (Jonathan) of Waco, Richard Metzgar of Waco, Braedon Metzgar (Hannah) of College Station, and Bryson Metzgar of Waco; and great-grandchildren: Layla, Lainey, Sadie, Laramie, Josie, Charli, Hays, Willa, Mills, Kolter and Keller (on-the-way), each a testament to the love and wisdom he shared.

Richard is reunited in peace with those who passed before him: his father, Benjamin "Buster" Pickens; his mother, Dorothy Pickens; his first wife, Judy Pickens; and his sisters, Mary Louise Pickens and Laura Brewer. Their memories live on in the hearts of his surviving family and all who were touched by his kindness.

To honor Richard’s remarkable life, friends and family are invited to visitation on Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 6 P.M. to 8 P.M. at Walters' Buffalo Funeral Home, Buffalo, Texas. A funeral service celebrating his life will be held on Sunday, August 2, 2026, at 2 P.M., also at the funeral home, with burial to follow in North Creek Cemetery.

Pallbearers:  Brenton Pickens, Tulley Pickens, Jeff Boykin, Wesley Stains, Jonathon Moore, Richard Metzgar

Honorary Pallbearers:  Ryan Pickens, Jarrod Metzgar, Jason Metzgar, Lee Aulton Jones, Clifford Jones, F.E. Jones

It is difficult to sum up a life so vibrantly lived, but those who knew Richard Lee Pickens will remember his unwavering commitment to family, his dedication to faith, his work-worn hands, and his loving embrace. In every story, every gathering, and every harvest, his memory endures—a testament to a life blessed by love and shared generously with others.

Arrangements for Richard are under the care and direction of Walters' Buffalo Funeral Home, Buffalo, Texas -- A Walters Family Funeral Home.