Katherine Nichols

Katherine (Kathy) L. Nichols was born on August 26, 1945, in Columbus, Ohio, and was raised on the Near East Side by her devoted parents, Alonzo and Beatrice Nichols, along with the loving support of her extended family. 

She was educated in the Columbus Public School system, attending Felton Elementary, Champion Junior High, and East High School. A proud and resilient mother of four, Kathy raised her children with the unwavering support of friends and family. She was a strong advocate for education and military service, encouraging her children and loved ones to strive for excellence and independence. Kathy was resourceful, goal-oriented, and blessed with a keen eye for design and fashion. Her home reflected her impeccable taste-beautifully decorated and immaculately maintained. She believed in presenting oneself with dignity and pride, often gifting loved ones with fine clothing to help them stand tall in any setting. Her fun- loving spirit shone through in her love of Scrabble, card games, music, and travel. Kathy lived life on her own terms-bold, charismatic, and unapologetically herself. She often declared, "I'm gonna live my life," and indeed, she did-fully and out loud. 

Professionally, Kathy worked at Kroger Bakery and later at the Community Housing Network, where she passionately supported individuals transitioning from incarceration or addiction. She believed in second chances and pushed others to overcome adversity and reclaim their lives. She proudly purchased her own home through hard work and sound financial planning and encouraged those around her to do the same. A natural leader with a no-nonsense approach, Kathy was always ready to open her home and her heart to family and friends in need. Her generosity, strength, and fierce love left an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to know her. 

In 2015, Kathy began a courageous journey with dementia. True to form, she made arrangements to remain in her home during her final years-doing things, as always, her way. One of her final wishes was that her life be celebrated with joy, not mourned with sorrow. And so, we gather in love and gratitude to honor the incredible woman she was. She played the hand she was dealt with grace and determination, and we are all better for her sacrifices. 

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, Alonzo and Beatrice Nichols; her brothers, Alonzo (Lonnie) Nichols Jr. and Richard Clement-Bey; and her beloved son, Lonnie S. Nichols. 

She is survived by her sister, Carol (Horace) Hill; her son, Tony (Janet) Long; her daughters, Wendy (Stephen) Garland and Nicole Nichols (Rod Pate); her grandchildren, Teauana (Brandon) Guskey, Bryce, Jordan, Narissa, Nyari, and Katherine; great grandchildren Blake, Parker, Jordan Jr., Janet and Nixyn; nieces Ebony, Alana and Amara as well as a loving extended family and a triumphant circle of cherished friends. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the lessons she taught, and the love she gave so freely.