Syrella Morgan Pickler

Miss Syrella Morgan Pickler, 100, formerly of Richfield, NC, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 20, 2023, in South Carolina, where she had been living with her two nieces. She was born October 26, 1923, in Richfield, NC and was the eldest child of the late Mr. and Mrs. Travis DeWitt Pickler (Minnie V. Morgan). 

Miss Pickler graduated from Richfield High School in 1940 and Morgan Business School in 1941. During WWII, Syrella worked for Edgewood Arsenal in Baltimore, MD from 1942-1946. In 1946, she began her career as an Executive Secretary with the State of NC, Dept of Transportation, Division of Highways, in Albemarle, from where she retired in 1986.

Syrella had a talent and passion for music. As a lifelong member of Richfield Baptist Church, she served as organist and pianist for many years. Also, throughout the years, she enjoyed countless trips to her families beach home at Windy Hill, North Myrtle Beach. 

Miss Pickler lived a amazing and long life. She was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Syrella was predeceased by her sister and brother-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Bascom Ward (Mildred), and her brother and sister-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Spurgeon D. Pickler (Betty).

Survivors include nieces Anne Ward and Mindy Ward of Greenville, SC, and Amy Sedberry of Richfield; cousins Jo Linker (Sid), Peggie Smith (Lendell) of Albemarle and Dora Anne Tedder of Greensboro.

A funeral service was held on November 25, at Richfield Baptist Church, officiated by Rev. Dale Collingwood. The burial took place at Richfield Cemetery. Music was provided by J.R. Drake, pianist, and Rick McCollister, soloist. Serving as pallbearers were Sid Linker, Sid Linker, Jr., Lendell Smith, Doug Davis, Gregg McCollister, and Rick McCollister.

Memorials may be made to Richfield Baptist Church, P.O. Box 96, Richfield, NC 28137.