John George Nichols

John G. Nichols passed away October 21, 2016 after a brief illness. John was born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina on December 18, 1929 to George J. and Mary D. Nichols. He graduated from R.J. Reynolds High School and attended North Carolina State University in Raleigh, North Carolina. He served 2 years in the U.S. Army, 1st Armored Division during the Korean War. After his discharge, John began his career in retail men’s clothing in Winston-Salem as a salesman and collection agent, learning the clothing business from the ground up. In 1954, he moved to Jacksonville, Florida and opened his own retail men’s clothing store catering to young men in the military. He was in this business in downtown Jacksonville for over 20 years. He was an avid supporter and activist for downtown. John was a member of St. John the Divine Greek Orthodox Church and a 32nd degree Mason.

In addition to his parents, John was predeceased by his son, George S. Nichols; his sister, Peggy N. Condorodis; his sister-in-law, Anastasia S. Nichols; and his brother-in-law, Costa A. Carantzas. He is survived by his daughter, Mary Catherine Long (Brad); his granddaughter, Brooke Long; and his grandson, Brad Long, Jr. (Christina). He is also survived by his brother, James G. Nichols; his sister, Katherine N. Carantzas; his brother-in-law, Peter J. Condorodis; and his life partner of many years, Mary Elizabeth Stewart and her daughter, Katy Crichlow; and many nieces and nephews.

The funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 26, 2016 at St. John the Divine Greek Orthodox Church, 3850 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville, Florida with Father Nicholas Louh and Father Milton Magos, officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to the St. John the Divine Greek Orthodox Church Building Fund or the charity of your choice.

Words of comfort can be left at www.HardageGiddensOaklawnChapel.com. Hardage-Giddens, The Oaklawn Chapel, 4801 San Jose Boulevard, is serving the family.