In loving memory of Mary Evelyn (Pickett) Blood, 88, who passed away at her home in Steger at 2:30 p.m. on April 7, 2014.She was born in rural Jefferson County, the daughter of Albert and Ella (Solomon) Pickett. She married Earl W. Blood (a gunners mate in World War II) and he preceded her in death on Dec. 17, 1984.Mrs. Blood worked for Nabisco, later for Ludeman Health Center in Park Forrest and she also worked in Lincoln with mentally handicapped children.Mrs. Blood is survived by her son, Steven E. Blood and wife Deborah; grandchildren, Lance Cpl. Adam E. Blood who served in Iraq, Noah S. Blood and wife Alisha, Cpl. Caleb H. Blood who served in Afghanistan and Rachel K. Blood; great-granddaughter, Emily K. Blood; and several nieces and nephews.In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Sgt. Sylvan Pickett on Leyte Island in the Philippines, Ambrose Pickett who tested tanks in WWII, Herbert “Bud” Pickett was at the Invasion of Normandy in World War II and Eugene Pickett who was injured at the Battle of the Bulge; and sisters. Sylvia Pickett and Betty Pickett.Memorial services will be held at 5 p.m. Friday at the Johnston Funeral Home in Ina with Bro. David Shores officiating. Burial will follow in the Kirk Cemetery in Ina.Visitation will be after 2 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.Mrs. Blood will be dearly missed by her family and her friends.