George Edward Nichols Sr.

George Edward Nichols Sr., affectionately known as “Nick” to his friends and loved ones, passed away peacefully at home on April 9, 2024, in Paris, TX. Born on October 29, 1932, in Crandall, TX, to parents George Henry and Verda Mae (Bannister) Nichols, he lived a life marked by dedication to his family, service to his community, and a legacy of joy and hard work.

Nick was a cherished member of his family, survived by his devoted wife, Ann Nichols, along with his loving daughter Terri Denise Nichols Shepard of Forney, TX. He was a proud patriarch to his stepchildren: Thomas Andrew Fitch and spouse Lauren Wilson of Tuscaloosa, AL, Patricia Kaye Dempsey and husband John Mark of Commerce, TX, and Beth Howell and husband Anthony of Cumby, TX. He adored his nine grandchildren: Nicole, Natasha, Trent, Chisolm, Jenny, Mike, Wilson, Margaret, and Charlotte, as well as his five great-grandchildren: Jordan, Mallory, J.B., Logan, and Karly Mae. Nick’s memory is also honored by his numerous nieces and nephews, along with special friends Chuck and Shirley Raper, Jerry and Mary Hudgens, and Don and Janie Bonham, all of whom shared in his life’s journey.

Preceding him in death were his parents, his son George Edward Nichols Jr., his sister Betty Geneva Nichols, and his brother Bobby Gerald Nichols. Throughout his life, he was deeply involved in school and church activities and any endeavors his children undertook, always exemplifying the role of a supportive parent.

Following his graduation from Forney High School in 1950, Nick answered the call of duty, serving in the United States Air Force from 1952 until 1956. His professional career was marked by excellence, including accolades such as being named the number one salesman for Hooper Holmes Bureau and Wausau Insurance Company where he worked until retirement in 1992. After relocating to Paris area in 1993 he invested his time raising cows on an 86-acre spread. He also enjoyed driving and managing paperwork for several Paris auto dealers. Finally retiring completely within the last year. He was proud of the fact, and told ever yone, especially his grandchildren, that he only missed 17 days of work in 40 years!

Dedicated to service, Nick served the city of Forney proudly for 14 years as part of the City Council and as Mayor. He was a lifelong pillar of community involvement, as evidenced by his membership in the Brooklyn Lodge #386 since 1967, the VFW and his 27 years as a member of the Forney Volunteer Fire Department. A faithful member of the First Baptist Church in Forney untilhefoundachurchhome atTheCowboyChurchinthe Camp about 15 years ago.

Recently, Nick was wellknown for his participation in local groups such as the McDonald’s Coffee group and Yoders Tuesday afternoon group, as well as serving on the Aud’s Creek Water Board. His presence in these circles was a source of friendship and shared wisdom that will be dearly missed.

A celebration of Nick’s life was held on Friday, April 12, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at the Cowboy Church in the Camp, co-officiated by Pastor Duane Hamil and Pastor Wade White. Later that same day, Nick was laid to rest at Hillcrest Cemetery in Forney, TX, with a graveside service at 3:00 p.m. The Roden-Pryor Funeral Directors of Paris, TX, were entrusted with the arrangements.

Nick’s life was characterized by service, love, devotion, and joy. A beacon of strength and compassion, his legacy will continue to inspire and guide those who were fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply and enduringly missed, as his was a life truly well-lived.