Janice Nichols Booker

Born on August 6, 1954, in Many, Louisiana, Jan was the daughter of Rachel Leatrice Blackwell Nichols and Shelton Woodrow Nichols. From the beginning, she carried a warmth that drew people in—an infectious smile, quick humor, and a generous heart that knew no limits.

Jan devoted her life to her three daughters, loving them fiercely and unconditionally. She was a hands-on Mimi to her seven grandchildren, faithfully making lunches, handling school drop-offs and pick-ups, and showing up in the countless quiet ways that matter most. She cherished family traditions, spending countless hours cooking and filling her home with warmth and belonging. Feeding those she loved was her love language. No task was ever too big or too small, and if someone was in need, Jan was always the first to give.

Jan was deeply devoted to her family beyond her role as a mother and Mimi. She shared a close and loving bond with her only brother, Mike Nichols, and his wife, Marilyn, cherishing their relationship throughout her life. She was also deeply devoted to her aunt, Dianne Blackwell Polk, who was a surrogate mother to her and a constant source of love, guidance, and support.

Later in life, Jan moved from El Dorado to Little Rock to be closer to her daughters and grandchildren—placing family, as always, at the center of her world. She was twice lucky in love and was deeply grateful for the last ten years with her devoted partner, Sergeant Major Marion Benjamin Robinson Jr., who cared for her heart and soul. As the seasons of life changed, Ben stood faithfully by her side with quiet strength and devotion, helping care for Jan and her younger crew of grandchildren. Together, they created a home filled with love, steadiness, and grace.

Jan was a proud and faithful member of First Baptist Church in El Dorado, Arkansas. She was married to Dr. John Gregory Booker, who remained a constant presence in her life—her lifelong best friend and prayer partner until her final breath. She was also the owner of The Slaughter House of Gifts, where her impeccable attention to detail, deep knowledge of etiquette, and encyclopedic understanding of china patterns made her a trusted guide for countless brides.

Jan’s family extends heartfelt gratitude to Tasha Cummins for her care and kindness over the last year, and to her best friend, Sandy Hilyard Cameron—her daily confidant and chosen sister—for a friendship that brought constant comfort, laughter, and love.

Above all else, Jan will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and the way she made people feel deeply seen and loved. Her legacy lives on through her family, her traditions, and the many lives she touched.

Jan is survived by her three beloved daughters and their families: Alisha Booker Jacuzzi and husband Richard, and their children, Isabella and Grant; Nicole Booker O’Shea and husband Brennan, and their children, Jackson (fiancé, Wesley Burney) and Brooks O’Shea; and Lauren Booker Landers Swift and husband Jerad, and their children, Carson Landers, Stella Kate Swift, Jett Swift, and Pyper Swift. She is also survived by her brother, Shelton Michael Nichols and wife Marilyn of Many, Louisiana, along with a host of cherished nieces and nephews, and many brothers- and sisters-in-law.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Rachel Leatrice Blackwell Nichols and Shelton Woodrow Nichols, and by Dianne Blackwell Polk.

A celebration of life for Jan will be held on December 27 at Pinecrest Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the celebration of life at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Jan's name to a charity of your choice.