Bernice Pickens

Bernice M. Pickens, 70, of Topeka, passed away Wednesday, July 12, 2006 at her home after a brief illness.

She was born July 26, 1935 in Allen, KS, the daughter of Jess and Bertha Thomas Corpening.

She was a 1953 graduate of Allen High School. She then moved to Topeka and was employed by Woolworth Department Stores for many years. She then operated a family daycare from her home. She also worked for Cardinal Cleaning Services for several years. She was an avid Bingo player and loved to read. Playing cards and board games with her family was a very special passtime. She will always be remembered as a loving and devoted wife, mother and grandmother.

She married Earl Raymond Pickens on November 23, 1954 in Topeka. He preceded her in death in 1996. She was also preceded in death by an infant daughter, Carol Sue in 1965 and by two sisters.

Survivors include a daughter, Kay A. Renyer and her husband Randall of Berryton; two sons, Gary L. of Topeka and Randy R. Pickens and his wife Amy of Rossville; one sister, seven brothers and grandchildren, Valerie, Kristi, Heather, Emily and Jordan.

Mrs. Pickens will lie in state after 2:00 pm, today at Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel where the family will greet friends from 6:30 to 8:00 pm this evening. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, July 15 at the funeral home with burial to follow in Penwell-Gabel Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Midland Hospice Care, 200 SW. Frazier Circle, Topeka, KS 66606 or to First Baptist Church, 3033 SW. MacVicar, Topeka, KS 66611.