Nichols Branson, age 84, passed away on October 6, 2025.

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, J.W. Nichols, 84 of Branson, entered into Heaven on Monday, October 6, 2025.

Born on December 15, 1940 in Brownwood, Texas, J.W. was the son of Porter J. & Myrtle (Gilbert) Nichols.  He grew up in California attending school in Glendale, Lancaster and Lawndale. On February 7, 1959, J.W. married his sweetheart, Ann in Yuma, AZ.

J.W. provided for his family working as an estimator with Hinderliter Energy in Tulsa.  He was also a great man of faith, pastoring 7 years at Norwood Lakeview Baptist in Hulbert, OK and 3 years at Sageeyah Baptist in Claremore, OK.  His hobbies included traveling, woodcarving and being outdoors fishing.

J.W. will be remembered for his devotion to his Lord and Savior and to his family.  He is survived by his wife, Ann Nichols of Branson, three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents and his two sons, Steven and William Nichols.

Friends and family will gather at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at First Baptist Forsyth for a time of visitation.  Funeral services will follow at 2:00 p.m. in the church with Dr. Jay Todd officiating.

J.W. will be laid to rest at Lee’s Chapel Cemetery in Sandtown, AR.

Memorials are suggested to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, stjude.org.

Arrangements are in the care of Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory, Branson.