Kenneth W Nichols

Kenneth was loved by all who knew him. His passing has left a void in the hearts of family and friends.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his son, Jason Nichols; his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Robert and Beulah Nichols; his brothers, Drue Nichols, Hoyt Nichols, and Jerry Nichols; his sisters, Dena Holley, Becky Christian, and Sandra Hodo.

Kenneth is survived by his wife, Dianne Freeman Nichols; his daughter, Nichole Nichols Bailey (Lance); stepson, Charlie Gates (Donna), two grandsons, Parker and Tanner Bailey; granddaughters, Mary Nichols; Adrienne Hennis (Blaine), Courtney Gates, one brother, Eddie Nichols (June).

Kenneth loved to hunt, fish, and watch Alabama football. However, the highlight of his life was his time spent with his family. Kenneth served his country honorably in the Vietnam War. He served in the Army as a Sergeant in the 25th Infantry Division during the Tet Offensive. He was a highly decorated soldier, though he rarely spoke of his accomplishments. Like most service members, he served for his country, not for glory. Now is the time to honor him for his sacrifices. Kenneth was a “tunnel rat” in Cu Chi Minh Vietnam. In 1967-1968, Kenneth received three Purple Hearts for being injured in combat. He was the recipient of the Combat Infantryman Badge 1st Award, The National Defense Service Medal, The Vietnam Service Medal with Two Bronze Stars, and The Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device 1960. He was also recognized as a First Class Gunner with the MG M60, Expert Rifleman with the M-14, and as a Marksman with the M-16 Rifle. Kenneth’s time in Vietnam shaped the rest of his life.

A visitation for Kenneth W. Nichols will be held Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Sunset Funeral Home followed by a Celebration of Life at 12:00 PM. Burial will follow at Memory Hill Gardens, 2200 Skyland E Blvd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35405.

Serving as pallbearers are Jeff Nichols, Mickey Joe Freeman, Dale Christian, David Hodo, Parker Bailey, and Tanner Bailey.