Dalon Swen Pickering

Dalon Swen "Pickle" Pickering

April 1972 - November 2, 2026

Dalon Swen "Pickle" Pickering, 54, of Fall Branch, TN, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and closest friends.

Some people go through life quietly, while others leave behind a lifetime of laughter, unforgettable stories, and memories that bring a smile even through tears. Dalon was certainly one of the latter. Known affectionately to just about everyone as "Pickle," he was a man with a larger-than-life personality, a quick wit, and a heart that was every bit as big as his sense of humor.

Born in 1972, Dalon spent his life in the Kingsport area, where he built countless friendships and became someone people simply enjoyed being around. He had a natural gift for making others laugh, often with a perfectly timed joke or a good-natured jab at someone he loved. Of course, he enjoyed it even more when someone was quick enough to give it right back. His humor was part of who he was, and those who knew him best will tell you that few people could make them laugh quite like Pickle.

For more than 12 years, Dalon worked for Quality Care Ambulance Service, where he formed lasting relationships with coworkers and friends.

Dalon had a lifelong love of sports and competition. He was an avid softball player and even had his own team, appropriately named "Pickle's Dill Team," a name that perfectly captured his playful personality. He also enjoyed playing billiards and was a member of the Justice League pool team. One of the highlights of his life came in August 2026, when he traveled to Las Vegas to compete in the World Championships. It was a dream come true, made possible through the love and generosity of friends and family who wanted to see him experience something he had always hoped to do. That trip became one of his most treasured accomplishments and a memory his loved ones will forever hold dear.

When he wasn't playing softball or shooting pool, Dalon could often be found enjoying football. A devoted Pittsburgh Steelers and Tennessee Volunteers fan, he loved cheering on his teams and had accumulated an impressive collection of football cards over the years.

Yet, for all the things Dalon enjoyed, nothing meant more to him than his family.

His son, Clayton, was more than just his son. He was his best friend. The two shared an extraordinary bond built on 23 years of love, laughter, fishing trips, and time spent together. Whether they were casting a line or simply enjoying each other's company, those moments meant the world to Dalon. Being Clayton's dad was one of the greatest joys of his life.

Dalon's love as a father extended far beyond blood. When Courtney, Christen, and Ciara were just little girls, he stepped into their lives and became their dad. He embraced that responsibility wholeheartedly, loving and raising them as his own. Even when life brought changes and his marriage ended, his commitment to being their father never wavered. They were his daughters, and he remained their dad. It was a beautiful reflection of the kind of man he was and the depth of his love for his children.

Then came the grandchildren, who knew him by a name even sweeter than Pickle: "Pop Pop." His five grandchildren brought him tremendous happiness, and he loved each of them dearly. Though their time with him was far too short, the stories, laughter, and memories of their Pop Pop will be lovingly passed down so they will always know just how much they meant to him.

He shared a very special bond with his mother, who was not only his mother but also his best friend. They cherished the countless hours spent sitting together, talking and sharing life's moments, as well as the meals she lovingly prepared for him. Whether watching football, Bigfoot, or tuning in to Ghost Hunters, they found joy in simply spending time together. Their relationship was one of deep love and friendship, creating memories that she will forever hold close to her heart.

Dalon also shared a special bond with his sister, Hera, whom he lovingly called his angel. Throughout the challenges of his declining health, she remained faithfully by his side, becoming his advocate, his strength, and his voice when he could no longer speak for himself. He often expressed how deeply he loved and appreciated everything she did for him. Their bond was one of unwavering devotion, especially during the most difficult chapters of his life.

The last several years brought Dalon more than his share of hardships and physical struggles. He faced them with determination, surrounded by people who refused to let him face those battles alone. In his final days, family and friends gathered around him, sharing stories, offering comfort, and reminding him of just how deeply he was loved. Even when he could no longer speak, he found little ways to acknowledge those who came to see him, letting them know he recognized their presence and felt their love.

Those final days were a testament to the impact he had made throughout his life. The steady stream of visitors, the laughter through tears, and the countless stories shared were reminders that a life is measured not simply by its years, but by the people whose hearts it touches.

At just 54 years old, Dalon leaves this world far sooner than anyone who loved him could have imagined. There were still fishing trips to take, football games to watch, jokes to tell, and memories to make. His absence will be deeply felt, especially by the children who adored their dad, the grandchildren who loved their Pop Pop, and the many friends who considered him family.

But if there is one thing Pickle would never want, it would be for everyone to forget how to laugh. His family and friends will carry his humor forward, remembering the jokes, the playful teasing, the stories that probably shouldn't be repeated in polite company, and the countless moments that made life a little brighter simply because he was there.

Dalon may have lost his battle with the physical struggles of this life, but he never lost the love of those who stood beside him. His pain is over, his struggles are finished, and the laughter he brought into this world will echo for generations.

He was preceded in death by his stepfather, Jim Johnson; biological father, Sam Pickering Jr.; and uncle, Freddie Russell.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved son and best friend, Clayton Pickering; daughters, Courtney McKenzie, Christen McKenzie, and Ciara McKenzie; six cherished grandchildren, Aaryah, Onyx, Axley, Rylan, Elias, and Toby; loving mother, Earlene Russell Johnson; devoted sister, Hera Pickering; special aunt, Marcella Daughtery; his closest friends, Bubba, Kay, Brandon, and Dallas; several cousins; and a host of extended family members and friends whose lives were made richer by knowing him.

A Celebration of Life honoring Dalon and the many wonderful memories he leaves behind will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to assist with Dalon's final expenses. Click here to make a donation toward the cost: https://square.link/u/xpozwGqd

Rest easy, Pickle. The game may be over, but the stories, the laughter, and the love you leave behind will never end.

Trinity Memorial Centers Funeral Home (423-723-8177) is honored to serve the Pickering family. Online condolences and memories may be shared with the family through the funeral home's website.