DR. LARRY PICKERING
Dr. Larry K. Pickering, a distinguished leader in pediatric Infectious Disease and a dedicated mentor, passed away on July 1, 2025 in San Diego, California. He was 81.
A trailblazer in medical education, research, and public health, Dr. Pickering played a pivotal role in shaping immunization policy in the United States and around the world. His contributions profoundly impacted the health and lives of countless children globally.
Born in 1944, Dr. Pickering earned his medical degree from West Virginia University School of Medicine in 1970. He completed a pediatric residency and an infectious disease fellowship at Washington University School of Medicine, launching a remarkable career devoted to protecting children from infectious diseases.
Throughout his career, Dr. Pickering held academic and leadership roles at the University of Texas- Houston, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Emory University, Eastern Virginia Medical School, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). He served on the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and was editor of the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Red Book for three editions – a definitive resource on pediatric infectious diseases.
Dr. Pickering is survived by his beloved wife, Mimi; their children, Maggie and Andy; and 3 grand- children, Kenan, Edie and Mae. He is also survived by his sister, Susan; brother-in-law, Mike; and two nephews, Lucas and Ryan.
Larry was known for his sharp wit and infectious sense of humor, and he was willing to bet on almost anything. His granddaughters remember him as an inspiring and kind- hearted man who always had a joke to share. A master card player, he usually won, and graciously accepted checks from those who owed him.
He was deeply proud of his West Virginia roots and his alma mater, West Virginia University. He established a lasting scholarship there to support future generations of medical students, endowed Pickering Chair, and the Hogan Lecture Series.
A memorial service will be held in September 2025 to honor his enduring legacy in pediatric infectious disease and public health. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the West Virginia University Pediatric Department or Alzheimer’s San Diego.