James Michael Pickering, 75, passed away, Wednesday, May 13, 2015 of natural causes. He was born September 7, 1939, the son of the late Guy Homer and Opal (French) Pickering. A lifelong resident of Springfield, Jim attended Greenwood Laboratory School and Drury College. In his professional life, he worked as a traveling salesman for the Ely & Walker Dry Goods Company and was the Builder and Developer of Jamestown Additions. Jim served his country in the U.S. Army. He is survived by two daughters, Jeanie Pickering of Tierra Verde, FL and Julie Pickering Drake (Mrs. Richard Drake) of Stilwell, KS; grandsons, Taylor Drake and Nicholas Drake both of Stilwell, KS; and his former wife, Martha Pickering of Springfield. Private burial was held alongside his parents in Maple Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Meals on Wheels, 3801 South National, Springfield, MO 65807. The family has requested privacy from social media.