Julian Shelburne Pickens

Julian was born in Alexander City, AL on January 7, 1939. His parents were James Dee Pickens and Julia Annie Royer Pickens. He graduated from high school in Tazwell, VA where he was on the football team, lettered in baseball, President of the senior class, and participated in Boys State. He was voted “Best Senior” in his class. He continued his education at University of Virginia for a year, then moved on to the University of Northern Alabama, where he received a Bachelor of Science in 1962. Julian served in the U.S. Army as an Intelligence Officer and spent two years in Korea. He later continued his education at the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, where he earned the degree of Doctor of Education. It was at this juncture in his life that he decided to devote himself to helping people in addiction. He served as a Program Director of Valley Hope and later went into private practice as a substance abuse counselor, a marriage and family therapist and as an interventionist.

Julian’s participation in the community included being Charter President of Crown Rotary Club of Sun Lakes. He served as Post Chaplain for Veterans of Foreign Wars and their families. Julian was founder of the SLUMC Adult School Class and taught that class for over 20 years, Julian was a devout Christian and a loving and caring person who helped many people. But when it came to fun - golf was his love and he excelled by achieving at least 12 holes in one. He never missed an Alabama football game (Rolltide)! He will be missed by his family and many friends.

Julian was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, James D. Pickens, and his sister, Annie Dee Bryan. He is survived by his wife Marilyn, after 28 years of happy marriage. He is survived by a nephew, James Pickens, and nieces, Celia Griggs, Paige Chastain and Dee Alice Brentlinger. Also surviving is his step son, Daniel Petrie, and step grandchildren, Daniel and Sarah Petrie. Also surviving are Anthony Moseley, son in law, and additional step grandchildren are Adam Moseley (Ashlyn), Peter Moseley (Sammy), Nate Moseley, and a step-great -grandchild Miles Julian Moseley. A memorial Service to honor this great man will be held at Sun Lakes United Methodist on Saturday October 11, 2025 at 10:30 A.M.

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be directed to New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, 3939 Gentilly Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70126 Attn: Mr. Mark Hagelman.