James (Jim) Nichols made a peaceful transition to God his Creator on Tuesday, June 8, 2021, at Atrium Health Mercy. He was born November 26, 1923 in Lincoln County, North Carolina. He was the second child of eleven children born to the late Oscar Nichols and Mary Liza Farley Nichols who proceeded him in death, along with his brothers: Willie Oscar Nichols, Glenwood Nichols, Thomas Nichols, Celesler Nichols and Allen Nichols; His sisters: Georgia Ann Catchings, Lucille N. Byrd and Equlia Nichols.

On, January 30, 1943 James was united in holy matrimony to Effie Eula Odom Nichols who proceeded him in death along with his oldest son James (Jimmy), son-in-law Boyce Sherrill, Sr. and second wife Anna Mae Byrd Nichols.

James severed in the United States Army 1944-1946, and was a Veteran of World War II. He was awarded several medals, commendations, and citations for his honorable service, including: Bronze Star, World War II Victory Medal; Good Conduct Medal; Asiatic Pacific Theater Service Medal; Lapel Button ASR Score -Sept. 2, 1944; and GO WO WW2 Victory Medal.

James’ spiritual connection kept him in touch with God, his family, and his church. He served the church in numerous capacities, including Deacon Board Chairperson, Men’s Council and Building Committee member. His service as Deacon is a testament to his faithfulness and dedication to the work of the church. On Sunday, November 17, 2019 he was awarded the distinguished honor of Deacon Emeritus of New Saint Paul Holiness Church, Mt. Holly, North Carolina.

Those left to cherish his fond memories are his beloved children: Beverly B. Sherrill, Willie G. Nichols, Roger L. Nichols and his wife Ruth, Michael D. Nichols, Billy Joe Nichols, Larry Nichols, Alfred Nichols, Deborah D. Nichols, Eric Scott Nichols, Reginal D. Nichols and his wife Dorothy, Bernard Moore, John F. Mayfield Nichols; Daughter-in-law, Berlinda D. Nichols; Godson, Lonnie Burris; Over forty grandchildren and thirty great-great grandchildren; Two brothers: Robert C. Nichols and Esther Nichols and his wife Betty; Three sister- in-laws: Sarah R. Nichols, Rosa R. Nichols, and Elizabeth Nichols; nephews, nieces; cousins; and other relatives and friends. Funeral: Saturday; June 12, 2021 at 2:00 p.m.; at New St. Paul Holiness Church, Mt. Holly

Visitation: one hour before the service at the church

Interment: Hillcrest Memorial Gardens, Mt. Holly

Masks are required and service will be live on funeral home facebook page and St. Paul facebook page