Martha Pickett

SIKESTON, Mo. -- Martha E. Pickett, 84, of Sikeston died Thursday, Jan. 24, 2002, at Sells Rest Home in Matthews, Mo.

She was born Feb. 13, 1917, in Mississippi County, Mo., daughter of Charles L. and Stella Lorena Stalling Shortz. She married Elwood Pickett, who died Oct. 16, 1998.

Pickett lived in New Madrid County most of her life.

She was a veteran of World War II, serving as a chauffeur with the U.S. Army Women's Air Corps.

Survivors include a daughter, Faye Strauser of Dexter, Mo.; a brother, Alfred Shortz of Magalia, Calif.; a sister, Alfreda Watson of East Prairie, Mo.; seven grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a daughter, a grandson, and a brother.

Friends may call at McMikle Funeral Home in Charleston, Mo., from 5-8 p.m. today.

Funeral will be at 1:30 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home. The Rev. Richard Whitman will officiate. Burial will be in Mounds Park Cemetery at Lilbourn, Mo.