You have done right by your mom. It’s good you are trying to do right by yourself. I considered a pickup for the first time this summer. What are you looking at? They haven’t made small ones for quite a while it seems. I don’t want one of those monsters that look like Stompers, but I do think a light duty pickup would be useful.
Initially the mid-size Chevy Colorado ZR2 was my choice but it turns out I can get a ZR1 with the same build without the AEV branding for $6,000 less. All go and no show options (except stereo). Then add a Roof Top Tent, etc. etc. 
The Ranger was considered but not nearly as good as the Colorado or Tacoma. The Taco is more expensive, is not as powerful and the electronics package is wanting. More after market support and better resale value though.