Jody Lynn Nichols

Born September 17, 1946 in Pekin to Joseph “Rudy” and Lucy (Whitehead) Tennell, she married Steven F. Nichols on November 26, 1969 in Peoria. He died May 5, 2016 in Pekin. She also was preceded in death by her parents and one niece, Tracey Tennell.

Surviving are three sons, Joseph (Rosemary) Abraham of Peoria, Jeffrey Abraham of Pekin, Scott (Susan) Nichols of Morton; one daughter, Angela Nichols of Pekin; eight grandchildren, Tyler Abraham, Joey (Jen) Abraham, Billy Abraham, Andrea (Zack) Collins, Tommy (Jana) Abraham, Delanie Nichols, Natalie Nichols and Gabby Nichols; one great-granddaughter, Sophie Collins; one brother, Vincent (Sandra) Tennell of Pekin and her beloved dog and companion, Dexter.

Jody was the owner of Bloomin Attic Florist in Washington for 20 years, retiring in 2010. She also had worked as a crossing guard and as a special education teacher’s aide.

Jody was a resilient person who never gave up on life’s challenges. She had a welcoming spirit and was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She enjoyed Journey concerts, talking current events, reading, shopping, jewelry and desserts.

The family would like to thank her caretakers Rosie Hernandez, Arlene Betteridge and Holly Henderson, and her Compassus Hospice Care team for the loving care they gave to Jody.

A private graveside service will be held Tuesday, September 20, 2022 at Woodrow Cemetery in rural Pekin. Pastor David Craig will officiate. Arrangements have been entrusted to Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin.

Memorial contributions may be made to Boys and Girls Club of Pekin, 1101 Veerman, Pekin, IL 61554.

To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com