James Joseph “Joe” Pickler, affectionately known as “Sir,” of Paris, Tennessee, passed away on October 6, 2026, at the age of 77. Born on May 25, 1949, in Memphis, Tennessee, to Wyatt Hamilton “Pete” Pickler, Jr., and Nell Wonda Partin, Joe lived a life filled with laughter, generosity, and love for his family.After graduating from Central High School, Joe joined the United States Air Force, where he served for two years before receiving an honorable medical discharge. He later attended the University of Tennessee, earning his bachelor’s degree in 1977 while working full time and raising his young family. During his time at the university, he also volunteered at the Spencer Youth Center.
Joe’s career included working at Honeywell, Ligon Trucking, then Dunavant Enterprises, where he founded and ran Dunavant Software with Ruth Joyner. He later worked for Cyborg Systems, earning recognition as the company’s top salesman for several years. He and his best friend, Tim McClaughry, enjoyed a friendly competition over who would claim the top salesman title each year.
Joe loved cheering on the Tennessee Volunteers, and spending time with his family and friends. He was an active member of Friendship Baptist Church in Buchanan, TN. He also had a soft spot for animals and volunteered with various dog rescue groups, helping transport dogs to their forever homes.
Above all, Joe was his family’s biggest cheerleader and was a staple at cheer competitions, athletic events, and academic celebrations. As his children and grandchildren grew, he remained a devoted supporter, proudly following their work, businesses, and other endeavors. He regularly celebrated their accomplishments on social media, making sure they knew how proud he was and how much he loved them.
Joe will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Vivian of Paris, TN; his daughters, TK (Jon) of Willis, Texas, and Joyce (Shannon) of Humboldt, Tennessee; his grandchildren, Chelsea Hulon and Duncan Hulon of Willis, Texas, Darcy (Cruzin) Perkins of Elroy, Wisconsin, Landon Mason, Brianna Mason, and Madelynn Mason of Humboldt, Tennessee, and Riley Hulon (Andrew) of Austin, Texas; his great-granddaughter, Adalynn and his siblings; Wyatt Hamilton Pickler, Jr(Sarah) and Paul Leach (Chickie)of Mt. Juliet, Tn and Anita Fullerton(James) of Goodlettesville, TN. His family and friends will treasure the laughter, love, and memories he shared with them.
Joe’s Homecoming Celebration will be held on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. in the sanctuary of Friendship Baptist Church, 1385 Friendship Rd., Buchanan, TN 38222.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to everyone who has offered support, kindness, and care during this difficult time.