Officer Michael Pickering, I.D. 5403, of Keystone Heights passed away Tuesday, March 4, 2014 from injuries he sustained in an automobile accident. He was born November 24, 1961 in Fall River, MA to the late William and Betty Pickering. Michael had begun his career with the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office in 1983 and retired June 2013 following 30 years of service. He was a member of the St. William Catholic Church where he was also in the Knights of Columbus. He was a Girl Scout Dad and an Eagle Scout, along with being a member of the Sons of the American Legion, F.O.P., P.A.D.I. and the Patriot Guard Riders. Michael enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson and was an excellent cook. He is survived by his wife of 13 years, Diane (Denemark) Pickering; 3 children, Kerri M. Stine of Gainesville, Michael "Robbie" Pickering and Aleece Pickering both of Keystone Heights; 3 siblings, Karen Wellman and Bryan Pickering both of Middleburg, and Diana Thomas of Jacksonville; mother in law, Suzanne Denemark of Keystone Heights; one grandson, Michael and numerous extended family members and friends. Viewing for Officer Pickering will be on Fri. March 7, 2014 from 4-8 p.m. in the JONES-GALLAGHER FUNERAL HOME CHAPEL. Funeral Mass will be 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 8, 2014 in the St. William Catholic Church with Father Mike Williams officiating, and interment will follow at Keystone Heights Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart Association, 3801 NW 40th Terr. Suite B, Gainesville, FL 32606.Arrangements are under the care of JONES-GALLAGHER FUNERAL HOME, 340 E. WALKER DR. KEYSTONE HEIGHTS, FL 32656.352-473-3176.www.jonesgallagherfh.com hide