Nelda Pickett

Nelda Joyce Pickett was born in Beaumont, Texas, on January 26, 1947, to Sam Houston Smith and Nellie Mae Falke Smith. From the very beginning, Nelda had a spark — a mix of independence, cleverness, and mischief that would carry through her entire life.

She grew up in Winnie, Texas, and graduated from East Chambers High School before attending Sam Houston State University. College didn’t slow her adventurous spirit. She was known for slipping bottles from her father’s liquor store to sell to her dormmates, and she once convinced her rodeo instructor to let her keep an extra horse at school — agreeing only if he could train and ride it. On another occasion, she persuaded her cousin to write a letter to the dean so she could stay out past curfew, supposedly to babysit, though that wasn’t always the case. Nelda had a knack for finding her own way in the world, and those who knew her weren’t surprised by her cleverness and charm.

After college, Nelda built a career that reflected her determination and strong work ethic. She spent many years in car sales and finance management, where her sharp mind and personable nature made her a natural fit. Later, she worked for the county tax office, serving her community with the same reliability and commitment she gave to her family.

Nelda’s greatest pride was her family. She raised four children — Darrell, Jeffrey, Cody, and Aimee — and was devoted to supporting them in everything they did. From cattle shows and horse competitions to athletic games, dance recitals, and school events, Nelda was always there, present and encouraging.

Her love of horses was lifelong. She trained, showed, raced barrels, roped, and cut cattle — happiest when in the saddle or at the arena. She was also an avid reader, often found with a book in hand when she wasn’t ringside supporting her children.

After Donald Pickett returned home from serving his country, he and Nelda met, and together they built a life of love and partnership. Their marriage spanned more than fifty years, a testament to devotion, resilience, and shared laughter. Together, they raised a family and nurtured a home filled with warmth and love.

Nelda had a zest for life beyond her family and horses. She enjoyed traveling, with Europe being one of her favorite destinations, and she loved the excitement of going to casinos, always embracing new experiences and adventures wherever she could.

She shared a lifelong bond with her brother, Kenneth Ray Smith. The two were inseparable growing up, and both carried their love of horses into adulthood — Kenneth as a racehorse trainer and Nelda in her many equestrian pursuits. Her sister-in-law, Darlene Hargraves Smith, was far more than family by marriage; she was a true sister and a close friend, a constant presence in Nelda’s life.

As her family grew to include grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Nelda’s love and devotion only deepened. She was there for every milestone, big or small, providing unwavering support, pride, and encouragement.

Nelda Joyce Pickett lived a life of grit, humor, and devotion. She was a rebel, a horsewoman, a reader, a traveler, a wife, a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. Above all, she was a steady, loving presence for the people she cherished. Her story will live on in every laugh shared, every arena run, and every gathering of her family — because her spirit cannot be forgotten.

Survivors include her husband of over fifty years, Donald Pickett; children and their spouses/partners, Darrell and his wife, Yvette; Jeffrey and his partner, Wendy; Cody and her partner, Jarrod; Aimee and her husband, Steve; beloved sister-in-law, Darlene Hargraves Smith; grandchildren and their spouses, Cullen Sonnier; Mason Sonnier; Jenna Hume and her husband, Stuart; Leanne Denton; and Liliana Hookstra; great-grandchildren, Mia Denton, Lucas Hume, and Ally Hume; and many other family members and friends who will miss her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Sam Houston Smith and Nellie Mae Falke Smith; and brother, Kenneth Ray Smith.

A gathering of Mrs. Pickett’s family and friends will be from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., with her Rosary to be recited at 6:00 p.m., Thursday, September 18, 2025, at Broussard’s, 134 W. Buccaneer Drive, Winnie. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m., Friday, September 19, 2025, at St. Louis Catholic Church, 315 Buccaneer Drive, Winnie, with her interment to follow at Fairview Cemetery, Winnie.