Sanford Neely Pickens returned home to a loving God on June 18.

Sanford was born in Covington, Tennessee on February 20, 1952 to Marie Neely (Mama Ri) and James Pickens (both deceased) Family include stepmother Doris Pickens of Cleveland, and Aunts Helen West of Cleveland and Mary Nita Smith of Covington.

Sanford was the oldest of his siblings: James Pickens, Jr. (deceased), Denise Pickens (deceased), Darlene Pickens (deceased), Clifford Hinton Jr. (deceased), Diane Hinton and Jacqueline Hinton of Cleveland, Ventres Pickens of Cleveland, Rose Pickens of Detroit, Renee Pickens of Covington, Rose Marie Thomas (June) of Cleveland, special sister-in-law Lita Knight of Detroit, and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

Sanford moved to Cleveland when he was 18 years old. He was a member of the L'Arche Community of Cleveland in the 70's and he is a close friend of the Little Brothers and Sisters of the Eucharist who opened their home and hearts to Sanford over the past 40 years.

No one who ever met Sanford could forget him, and he remembered all whom he met. He knew the heart of the gospel: that we need one another to grow, to thrive, and to be "family." His smile and laughter were his trademark, and his resourcefulness legendary. Others we meet along the way will remind us of Sanford's childlike personality, but no one will take his place. He was a bold angel on a mission to open minds and hearts on behalf of the many who challenge us to share our journey of faith together.

The family would like to express a special thanks to Sister Maggie and Father Jim and all their friends who have accompanied Sanford throughout his life.

The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, June 23, St. Malachi Church (2459 Washington Ave., Cleveland, OH  44113) at 11 A.M. where friends may call beginning at 10 A.M. Interment will be at Holy Cross Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the Community of Little Brothers and Sisters of the Eucharist 3675 West 165 ^th Street, Cleveland, Ohio 44111 or the Callistian Guild, 10000 Miles Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44105 would be appreciated.