On September 20, 1960 in Ardmore Oklahoma, Myrtle Vernice Pickens was born to Jereldine Pickens Lafrae and Andrew Vernon. At an early age, Myrtle (affectionately called Oodie) accepted Christ and was baptized at The Pentecostal Church. She attended Ardmore City Schools and was a 1978 Ardmore High School graduate.

She married Ollie Lee, Sr. and through this union the loves of her life were born. She became the proud mother of Ollie, Jr., Jason, and Russell Lee. In 2005, the Lord blessed her with a special love, her only granddaughter, Jalissa Lee a.k.a. “Sweetie Pie.” An extremely intelligent and accomplished woman, she mastered many career fields. Over the years, she worked as an accountant, tax consultant, daycare owner, and long haul truck driver. In August 2022, after 20 years of service, she retired from the Oklahoma State Department of Human Services.

Oodie was known for her big, warm, outgoing and loving personality. Everyone loved her. She was a constant source of inspiration to family and friends. Her favorite pastime was going to family celebrations and gatherings. It was at these events where friends and family could enjoy her culinary skills and her gift of storytelling.

On October 7 2022, she passed from death to eternal life. She was met by her parents and her brothers: John T. McCoy, Clyde Pickens Johnson, and Eddie Moore. She was greeted by her sisters: Joann Pickens, Melissa Ervin, and Linda Pickens-Gomez.

She leaves to mourn, her sons and granddaughter. Embracing the sweet memories of her life are her sisters: Earlene Jackson, Cynthia Pickens, Sherry Pickens, Velma Pickens, Fern Pickens, Joyce (Dino) McGee, and Dorothy Cheadle (sister/cousin); her brother Clint Vernon who she loved dearly and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.