Obituary of Frank Nichols

Frank Arnold Nichols, 68, of 184 Mistletoe Drive, Forest, VA passed away unexpectedly, but after extended illnesses, on Wednesday, February 1, 2012 at Lynchburg General Hospital. Born in Lynchburg, VA on August 8, 1943, he was a son of the late Albert L. Nichols and Beverley Bragg Nichols and was the brother of Albert (Al) L. Nichols, Jr. In addition to his brother, Al, he is survived by a nephew, Dr. Stephen A. Nichols, and his wife, Gerri A., of Towson, MD and their children, Philip, Daniel, and Julia; a niece, Diane N. Reid, and her husband, William J., of Midlothian,VA and their children, Benjamin, Samuel, Elijah, and Lydia. Frank is also survived by his cousins and their families with whom he loved to visit, his friends with whom he worked, his friends at his church, and special friends and neighbors Martha and Claude Tuggle. Frank was a devoted son who was a source of strength for his parents and who cared for them as they aged and faced declining health. Frank was a beloved uncle who took a special interest in the families of his niece and nephew and who regularly attended special events such as Christmas and birthday parties for them. Frank was a member of Rivermont Avenue Baptist Church and, until his health declined, served in different capacities including deacon and head usher. Frank graduated from E. C. Glass High School and attended Phillip?s Business College where he studied accounting. He then worked at Vaughn?s Chevrolet, Brockman Chevrolet, and Powell?s Truck and Equipment where he managed the accounting and computer work until his retirement. In 1967, Frank entered the U. S. Army and served in Vietnam. He was recognized for his excellent service and was awarded the Bronze Star. Frank was proud of his military service and was a member of the American Legion Post 16 where he served in the Honor Guard. Frank enjoyed the many friendships that he developed by his easygoing manner, his loyalty, and his conscientious efforts on any task. He also enjoyed sports and, as a youth, was a star football and baseball player for Rivermont in the Lynchburg City League. Fishing was always a favorite activity for Frank and his family, especially trout fishing on Tye River and at Peaks of Otter Lake. He enjoyed attending sports events, especially Liberty University basketball games and Flames Club activities. A celebration of Frank's life will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, February 4, 2012, at Rivermont Avenue Baptist Church, 1301 Rivermont Avenue, Lynchburg, VA with the Rev. Glen Land officiating. Interment will follow in the Bethesda United Methodist Church Cemetery, 14340 Wyatts Way, Huddleston, VA 24104. The family will receive friends on Friday, February 3, from 6:00 to 8:30 PM at Diuguid Wiggington Chapel. At other times, the family will receive friends at the home of Al Nichols, 206 Whitley Way, Lynchburg 24503. Memorial contributions may be made to Rivermont Avenue Baptist Church, 1301 Rivermont Avenue, Lynchburg, VA 24504 or to the Bethesda United Methodist Church Cemetery Fund, 14340 Wyatts Way, Huddleston, VA 24104.