RUTHERFORD CO., Tenn. (WTVF) — A Siegel High School teacher has died from COVID-19, according to his family.
A sibling of David Picklesimer shared on Facebook he passed away from COVID complications on Sunday.
Picklesimer was a digital arts and design teacher at Siegel High.
Rutherford County Schools said in a statement:
"We are very saddened to learn of the passing of one of our educators, Mr. David Picklesimer, who is a well-respected and longtime teacher with Rutherford County Schools and Siegel High School. He has touched a lot of lives during his career, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones."
Former students said they will remember his warmheartedness.
"'Mr. P' opened his doors up to me when I was going through a really tough time," said Hope LaFever, a student of his from 2013-2016. "He talked to me not only about school... he talked to me about how I was doing mentally. I really appreciate that I had the opportunity to know somebody like that."
Picklesimer continued to teach during the pandemic.
"Mr. Picklesimer was one of a kind," said Tracie Jones, who graduated from Siegel High School in 2014. "He was there when you needed him. He provided tough criticism when it was necessary. I originally took his class to fill my schedule. I never knew I would be in there for three more years. He made a lasting impression and had his students best interest at heart. Siegel High lost a special man. I’ve never met another teacher like him."
A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 16 at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Murfreesboro.
Friends have set up an online fundraiser to help his family pay for the service.
