Keiko Nichols

Keiko (Ohama) Nichols was born on November 27,1938, in Okinawa, Japan, and passed away peacefully on April 15, 2025. She had chosen to stop chemotherapy a year and a half prior. Keiko was the eldest of six siblings and was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Larry Nichols; her parents, Toshihiko and Masa; her brother, Kazuhiko; and her sister, Shizuko.

Known affectionately as Kay, she married the love of her life, Larry Nichols, on May 15, 1964, in Okinawa. While living there, they welcomed their first daughter, Kim. A few years later, the family was stationed in Oceanside, California, where they moved into a small mobile home by the harbor known as Sandy Shores — a place that still stands today. In 1969, they welcomed their second daughter, Kathryn.

In 1971, the family moved to San Antonio, Texas, before returning to Oceanside in 1975, settling into a newly developed community called Guajome Homes. There, they made many lifelong friends and cherished memories.

Kay was a devoted stay-at-home mom and often the go-to neighbor for babysitting. For many, she was like a second mother. In addition to raising her children, she also worked for many years as an Avon sales representative, where her warm personality and dedication made her beloved in the community.

She had a gift for many things — from gardening and sewing to crocheting, knitting, and cooking. Whatever she and Larry planted would thrive, especially her homegrown tomatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers. She loved gathering with friends to knit or crochet skirts, and anyone lucky enough to taste her cooking knows just how incredible it was.

One of Kay’s greatest passions was her faith in Christ. A devoted Christian, she inspired many to know the Lord. She founded a Japanese church group at First Baptist Church, and after transitioning to Calvary Baptist in Oceanside, she established Calvary Baptist Japanese Missions. Her home was a warm gathering place for Bible study, fellowship, and unforgettable potlucks filled with delicious Japanese dishes.

Kay was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend — always ready to help and support anyone in need. Her warmth, strength, and generosity will be deeply missed.

She is survived by her daughter Kim Mauer (Mark) and grandchildren David and Amber; daughter Kathryn Garcia (Jesus) and grandchildren Katalina and Jessica; sister Ikuko “Cookie” Feist (Jim), nephew Jamison and his sons Sebastian and Logan; sister Yoko Ohama; brother Nobahiko Ohama; and nephews Otsu and Tetsu.