Ms. Heather Jean Pickrell, 44, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully at the Center for Hospice Care in Mishawaka on Tuesday, March 29, 2022 following an extended but well-fought illness. She was born November 30,1977 in Columbus, Ohio and was raised by her step-father and mother, the late Charles and Teresa Pickrell Buckley.

Heather is survived by her son, Joseph N. (Chaylin Crawford) Green; her daughter Crystal Sandlin; brother Charles Buckley, Jr. and her sister, Angela Buckley. All are from Elkhart. Also surviving are her beautiful grandchildren Anani Noelle and Amias Divine Green; a loving host of extended family, and a large group of close friends and work associates, including her former spouse Carlos Bocanegra, with whom she remained close.

Billings Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Elkhart is honored to host Heather's memorial services beginning with a gathering of family and friends on Friday, April 8, 2022 at 4:00 pm, followed by a service there at 5:00 pm. Fr. Craig Borchard of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church will officiate. In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place and burial will follow at Prairie Street Cemetery in Elkhart at a later date.

Heather was a caregiver for many years and had plenty of love to go around.  Feisty, strong and independent, Heather had a bubbly personality that exuded happiness and joy. She was outgoing and could get along with anyone; a trait which won her many friends. However, her family and grandchildren meant the world to her, and she'd so anything to keep them safe, including going into "Mama Bear" mode if necessary! She was very proud of her little family.

Heather was a great cook, and always made things from scratch. It was said that the evening meal usually began in the kitchen sometime in the morning, and Heather would spend the majority of the day stirring in love and talent. Her more popular dishes were Latino delicacies like Menudo and Chicharrons, but she could make just about anything. She also was an accomplished bargain-hunter and shopper and could find deals just about anywhere

Friends and family wishing to make a monetary donation in Heather's memory may do so by donating to her grandchildren's future in care of her son, Joseph. Additionally, please be sure to thoroughly browse Heather's obit page, as you are able to leave condolences and memories, post photographs on his memory wall, and order other funerary items in regard to the family.

We hope that you will take the time to join us as we say our last good-byes to a mom, a sister, an aunt, a daughter, a friend and an amazing lady whose memory will forever live in the hearts of those she loved!!