James "Jim" Pickley

Message from Joanne Greer

Jim was one of my favorite cousins. We saw Jim at family gatherings....and several years spent Thanksgiving together at his parents house. One summer, when Jim was in high school, I spent a week at his house when my parents were away. He was a wonderful older cousin that I so admired and he took me in as a "younger sister". I admired him so much and loved to hear him play the piano. He would tease his dad by starting out playing a classical piece and then would switch it over into more of a jazz piece. They were always teasing each other and it was such fun. I love you Jim.....RIP. I look forward to seeing you again in our next life.

Message from Kathie & LeRoy Haynes

Dear Vicky, Just saw that Jim has died. We are so sad about Jim and feel so bad for you. We will be in touch after things have calmed down. Love you. K, & L.

Message from Cathy Forrest Johnson

So sad when I saw this today. I was in band with Jim in high school. When I would return to Elkhart to visit family, my parents would take me to dinner at Bent Oak and we were always hopeful that Jim would be performing. He entertained us with his wonderful music on several occasions and we would catch up at his break. Such a talented and genuine nice guy. Rest In Peace my friend.

Message from Bruce Leichty

It's been about 45 years since I saw Jim, but I remember his virtuoso piano abilities. I played piano, too, but couldn't hold a candle to Jim. I still remember that in our senior year (Class of 72) Kathy Brown (violin), Kathy Barber (cello) (now my wife of 8 years) and I played the first movement of Mendelssohn's Trio in D Minor. We played our piece for a women's group in Elkhart and I remember being somewhat mortified that Jim attended, too. He would surely know the level of difficulty of the piano part and all the places I had to fake it to keep up with my genuinely talented orchestra-mates. But I remember he was polite and complimentary despite knowing -- surely he must have been thinking! -- that he would have been better suited for the role! So glad he had a fulfilling life of music and a loving church family! I can't imagine the heavenly realms without more of the same!

Message from Patricia Rheinheimer

Jim and I grew up 2 houses apart from the time were 5 years old. He would tease me about anything and everything, but never mean. We played in the band and orchestra several years together. I'll always remember his piano renditions of George Gershwin. Heaven now will also enjoy the music.

Most sincerely,

Patti Rheinheimer-Osborne

Message from Julie and Mike Caffrey EHS72

So very sad for the loss of Jim Pickley. We feel fortunate to have enjoyed Jim's musical talents at Our Lady of the Lake some years ago. Our family found enjoyment on many, many occasions as Jim entertained us at Bent Oak...his work was always a perfect addition to the dining experience. Rest In Peace, humble gentleman.

Message from Mack and Chris Richardson

VIcky,

We are so saddened to hear of your husband's passing. While we only met Jim once, he had such a wonderful and kind spirit. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mack and Chris

Message from Pastor David Schrader

On behalf of the Grace United Methodist Church congregation, where Jim served as our music director, all I can say is that he was a complete delight, part of the spirit of our church, and we are broken hearted. Our prayers are with all who mourn this tragic loss.

Message from Judy Berg

Jim was a wonderful musician. He did some recording for me on my CD. He was very friendly and gracious to my husband and me and I remember hearing him play and thinking how he had a lot of grace. Condolences to his family and prayers for his soul.

A candle was lit by Rebecca Wilson on June 1, 2017 11:19 AM

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Dear Vicki, I am so saddened to learn of Jim's death. I will hold you up in prayer, praying that God will give you strength and courage. You are such a blessing to so many and I know Jim was, too. Please know how much I love and respect you.

Message from Shirley Bamber Teefel, Englewood, FL

I am deeply saddened to hear of Jim's passing. I can still hear him sitting at our piano playing the most beautiful music. His soft kindness was a special gift. Tell Butch hello. RIP Jim

A candle was lit by TheGroup from Goshen on May 31, 2017 11:24 PM

Message from Dorn Nichols

What a shock! Jim we miss you dearly. Your music was wonderful. I thank you for my late wife Ginny and myself for your music shared with Tom Netherton and The Senior Queen Pageant. Brother you are missed. RIP. My our Lord comfort all your loved ones. Amen

Message from Judi K

RIP, dear Jim Pickley, with no pain, no worries.
Enjoy the next ride with so many of your counterparts.
The music in the next world just got so much better!
My sincere condolences to the Pickley family.

Message from Debra Inglefield

Jim will be greatly missed. His wonderful talent and unfailing warm smile will be remembered for years to come. I played in the Elkhart Symphony when he soloed,playing Ravel, and it was wonderful. And every time I've heard him perform, there was always a moment of "sneak in quotes form other tunes" that was witty and fun. RIP, Jim.

Message from Cheryl and Ray Waldman

I think the last request we made of you, Jim, was your fabulous rendition of 'This Little Light of Mine'. We will miss you, but your light shines on.

Message from Brother rest on💖💖💖💖💖

Praying

Message from Mark Hammon

My heart hurts with the passing of Jim. He is such a talented individual and a great person in general. Musically, I had the honor of playing with the master a couple of times. Personally, I Can't remember a time not knowing Jim. We were friends from grade school through High school. Heaven has gained a master of the keys. I will truly miss Jim, but there is also comfort in knowing he is in good hands and without pain. My thoughts and prayers to the family.

Message from Richard and Judith Ann Rovnyak

Our prayers and condolences to Vickey and family. May all the good memories sustain you throughout this difficult time.

A candle was lit by Mike and Judy Friend on May 31, 2017 9:21 AM

Message from Helen Hibbs

Farewell to a wonderful musician and a kind and gracious person.
My sincere condolences to his family.
Helen Hibbs/teacher and fellow musician