Nicholas Keith Nicol

To know him was to be changed by him. He was a servant of God to his very core, a pastor for the greater part of his life, the shepherd of three congregations, and senior pastor of Revival of Hope Ministries in Kansas City. Yet his pulpit was never confined to a church. He was a professor and teacher; a fearless broadcaster and journalist whose voice carried both the news and the roar of the game into countless homes; an Olympian and coach known in his youth as “The Lion Man”; a celebrated executive chef who fed thousands; and a caregiver who opened his heart and his home to individuals living with disabilities. Whatever he set his hands and mind to, he did to the fullest and selflessly.

He gave his roses while the living could still hold them. His generosity had no ceiling, his faith no limit, and his love no borders. He was “Daddy,” “Grandpa,” “Coach,” “Chef,” “Pastor” and “friend” to more people than could ever be counted, and to every one of them, he was more than just a man.

Reverend Dr Nicol is survived by his beloved wife and lifelong companion, Esawa Nicol; his four children, Mrs Nina Betts (United Kingdom), Isaac D. Nicol (Australia), Reverend Dr Akindele Nicholas Nicol (Brazil) and Mrs Kathleen Murphy (New Zealand), and their spouses; his ten cherished grandchildren, Olabisi Thompson, Judith Thompson, Axel Nathan Betts, Monet I. Nicol, D’Angelo J. Nicol, Samuel Dag Akidele Nicol, John Akinola Nicol, Roberto Akinlade Nicol, Xavier Iain Murphy and Felix Cyril Murphy; and his brothers, Bishop Silas Nicol and Reverend Edmond Nicol. He also leaves behind his cherished brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, dozens of “adopted” sons and daughters, the many spiritual children he raised in the faith, several nieces and nephews across the globe, and a host of extended family, friends and loved ones.

He has laid down his cross and taken up his crown. We will carry his faith, his laughter and his love for the rest of our days.

Rest well, Daddy. Rest in the perfect peace you preached. It is well with your soul.