Mr. John P. "Sonny" Pickett III entered into rest on Sunday, February 28, 2021. Graveside service will be held on Friday, March 5, 2021 at 11 a.m. at Cedar Grove Cemetery with Rev. Augusta Hall officiating. Mr. Pickett served in the United States Army for ten years stationed throughout the US and abroad. He earned a B.S. degree in Education from Paine College and an M.S. degree in Educational Administration from Augusta State University. graduated from Paine College with B.S. in Education. Sonny was a charter member of the Epsilon Psi Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated. Mr. Pickett began his teaching career in Richmond County Public Schools and gave of his time and service to educating students for 30 years until his retirement in 1999. He always looked forward to playing in the Paine College Jazz Concert and participating in the Augusta Candlelight Jazz Series. Sonny was a part of many bands throughout his life to include the James Brown's house band, the Will Noble Affair, Confirmation, the Don Macy Quartet, Mello-D and played with several musicians in the city. Sonny also loved playing golf in his leisure time, spending many weekends on the golf course with buddies. Sonny joined Bethel AME Church where he was a member of the Sons of Allen and rendered his musical talents at several church functions. Survivors are his wife of sixty years, Betty C. Pickett; four daughters, Chantelle Pickett, Chandra Pickett, Crystal Pickett Frontin (Kenny Frontin MD), Carole Pickett; grandchildren, Kenny Frontin Jr., Camille Frontin; sisters, Betty P. Spencer, Carole P. (Lloyd) Williams, Evelyn P. Monroe; special cousins, Elmer L. "Hank" Pickett, Charlton Judson Pickett MD; and a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives. Mr. Pickett may be viewed on Thursday at the funeral home from 1 to 5 p.m. Please adhere to guidelines for social distancing and wearing masks. Williams Funeral Home, 2945 Old Tobacco Road, Hephzibah, GA Graveside Service Friday, March 5, 2021 Cedar Grove Cemetery 120 Watkins St. Augusta,Ga. 30901