Barbara Elaine Gurley Nichols

Barbara Elaine Gurley Nichols went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, November 29, 2014. She battled cancer for several years before finally gaining the ultimate victory that Jesus Christ offers to all who believe, as she cast off her earthly body and became present with Him for eternity.

Born on March 13, 1941, in Franklinton, La., to the late Gwendolyn Mattie Ritchie Gurley and the late James Mayes Gurley, she was preceded in death by three brothers: James Thomas, Robert Dale, and David Ritchie. She is survived by a sister, Deborah Gurley Brooks (JL); her husband, Homer Ira "Richy" Nichols, Jr.; two sons, Mark Richard Nichols (Mirna Giraud) and Matthew Howard Nichols (Michelle Hammond); and three grandchildren, Joshua Mark Nichols, Luke Christopher Nichols, and Emma Michelle Nichols.

Barbara's and Richy's 52 year marriage was a testimony of faithfulness which blessed their children and grandchildren. She was a loving, considerate, and supportive wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, and sister whose memory will be forever cherished by her family.

For 31 years, Barbara worked as an LPN, many of those years at East Jefferson Hospital. She enjoyed being a hands-on grandmother who was always doing activities with her grandchildren. She loved gardening, painting and sewing, and throughout her life was a devoted dog lover and owner.

All who had the privilege of knowing Barbara would agree that she treated everyone she met with love. She had a way of making an individual feel special, calling everyone the endearing term of “hon.” Ever the conversationalist, Barbara would talk as long as someone would listen; she never tired of chatting with her family and friends. She had a special humor which delighted everyone.

The faith that Barbara lived by and which sustained her throughout her life was an encouragement to those who knew her. She was God's prayer warrior for everyone she knew, and frequently asked others to pray for those on her prayer list. Every card sent by “Tita” (the name given to her by her oldest grandchild) had a scripture written in it that she had chosen specifically for that child, grandchild, or family member. Those words will be treasured by her family even more now.

There will be a service celebrating Barbara's life and Homegoing this Saturday, December 6, 2014, at 10:00 am at Victory Fellowship, 5708 Airline Drive, Metairie, LA 70003. Flowers or donations to Mary's Song Restoration Center are welcome. Donations for Mary's Song Restoration Center can be sent to Victory Fellowship. Condolences may be offered at www.leitzeaganfuneralhome.com.