Kirby Warren Pickett

Kirby Warren Pickett, a distinguished figure in both his professional and personal life, passed away on June 21, 2025, in Waco, Texas, at the age of 88. Born on November 2, 1936, in Lampasas, Texas, Kirby dedicated over forty years of his career to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), where he rose to the esteemed position of deputy director before his retirement.

Kirby’s academic journey led him to the University of Texas, where he earned a degree in engineering, equipping him with the knowledge and skills that would serve him throughout his lengthy career. His contributions to the field of transportation were marked by a commitment to improving infrastructure and ensuring the mobility of countless individuals throughout the state.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Kirby was a devoted family man who cherished his loved ones, particularly his granddaughters, Sara Kate and Anna Jane. He found joy in shared experiences, and after retiring, he and his beloved wife, Gerry, embarked on an adventurous journey together, traveling to 49 states and even exploring Japan. Kirby's passion for travel was complemented by his love for aviation, as he held a private pilot's license, which added another dimension to his adventurous spirit.

In his quieter moments, Kirby enjoyed solving crossword puzzles in ink, a pastime that reflected his methodical nature and appreciation for detail. His character was shaped by warmth and generosity, traits that endeared him to family and friends alike.

Kirby is survived by his beloved wife, Gerry; son, John Pickett, and his wife Kaori; grandchildren, Sara Kate and Anna Jane; step-son, Todd Caldwell; sister-in-law, Nelwyn Parnell; and numerous extended family members. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Ladell.

A memorial service to honor Kirby Warren Pickett will tentatively be on July 6, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Grace Gardens Funeral Home & Crematorium, located at 8220 Woodway Dr, Woodway, TX 76712. Friends and family are invited to gather to celebrate a life richly lived and to remember the profound impact Kirby had on those around him.