Thomas R. Nichols

ELKHART — Thomas R. Nichols, 67, of Elkhart, passed away Friday, July 20, 2018, at Elkhart General Hospital after a brief illness. 

He was born April 21, 1951, in Memphis, Tennessee, to Robert and Carrie (Chalmers) Nichols. 

He married Roxann Cantrell on May 21, 1983, in Elkhart.

Surviving are his wife, Roxann Nichols; three daughters, Kiwhonie Nichols, Lativa (Ron) Williams and Marilyn (Renard) Nichols-Corley; 21 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; siblings Mary Lee (Leslie) Stone, Lanelle A. Chalmers, Kevin V. (Thalia) Chalmers, Darlene Parker, Carolyn L. (Theodore) Parrish, Obidiah R. (Lady) Chalmers, Robert C. (Carolyn) Chalmers, Ledell O. Chalmers, Jessica Hicks, Trudy Chalmers and Clifton (Darla Kay) Hildreth; sisters-in-law Rose Cantrell, Vernita (Charles) Hawkins, Verna (Lawrence) Halliburton and Cynthia Williams; and nephew Edward Cantrell. 

Surviving also are many nieces, nephews and a host of friends and relatives. 

Thomas was preceded in death by his parents; stepson Ronnie Cantrell; twin brother Timothy Nichols; brothers Frank Nichols, Nathanial Hicks and Earl David Arnold, and a sister, Terry Nichols. 

Thomas worked as a machine operator for Barger Packaging for 20 years. 

He was a member and deacon of New Foundation United in Christ Fellowship in Elkhart. 

He was an avid cook and loved to watch western movies. 

He wasn’t afraid to talk about his faith in Christ. 

Thomas also was a singer with the Intellects for more than 20 years. 

Homegoing services celebrating the life of Thomas R. Nichols will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 28, at New Foundation United in Christ Fellowship, 2204 W. Mishawaka Road, Elkhart, with visitation starting at 10 a.m. 

Pastor Shawn Lange Sr. will officiate.

In accordance with his wishes, cremation will follow the services.

Arrangements are under the care of Billings Funeral Home, Elkhart. 

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