Frances Jean (Helton) Pickell

Frances Jean (Helton) Pickell, age 79, of Tipton, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, with her loving family by her side. She was born on March 10, 1945, in Benham, Kentucky to her parents, Dorlene Helton and Ruby (Hobbs) Helton. On August 29, 1964, Frances married the love of her life, Robert Pickell, and the two were fortunate to spend over 60 years together.  

Frances graduated from Loyall High School in Benham, Kentucky in the class of 1963. She proudly served in the United States Army from July of 1963 to December of 1964. Soon after, Frances married and dedicated herself to her family. She loved being a wife and mother, priding herself on making her home a safe, comfortable, loving space. Later in life, Frances felt the honor of being a grandmother, a role she instantly fell in love with. She was beyond proud of each of her grandchildren.  

Through the years, Frances worked for Elwood and Tipton School Corporations in the cafeterias. She was a great cook at school and at home. In Frances’ free time you would have found her at home. One of her favorite things to do was tending to her garden and flowers; she loved being outdoors. Frances was a natural caregiver to everyone who was fortunate enough to be part of her life. She will be greatly missed for her very loving and kind heart.  

Those left to carry on Frances’s legacy of love are her husband, Robert Pickell; sons, Robert Wayne Pickell, Danny (Melissa) Pickell, Donny Pickell; daughter-in-law, Amy Nguyen; grandchildren, Katelynn Pickell, Kaylee Pickell, Chloe Pickell, Peyton Pickell; siblings, Elmer (Amy) Helton, Margaret “Sue” Rains (Alvin Trosper), Dorlene (Eleanor) Helton Jr.; brother-in-law, Mike (Kathy) Pickell; sisters-in-law, Jean Helton and Audrey Helton; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.  

Frances was preceded in death by her parents, Dorlene & Ruby Helton; in-laws, Robert “Bill” & Jesse Mae Pickell; siblings, Jackie Helton, John Helton, Lillie Mae Cottrell, and Bill Helton. 

Out of respect for Frances’s wishes, no formal services will be held.  

Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home is honored to serve the Pickell family in their time of need. Please feel free to leave an online condolence or share a special memory of Frances with her family on her tribute wall.  

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