John Paul Nichols

He was born on August 12, 1951 in Parkersburg, WV to John Dearth Junior Nichols and Jacqualin (Jameson) Nichols. He is survived by his wife, Sheila (Maxwell), and children Jamie Nichols and Jessica Nichols. He grew up in Murphytown, WV with his siblings, Vicki Nichols (Kevin Murphy), Kenny (Jo) Nichols, Rita Nichols and Tracy Nichols. He has 5 grandkids, Dante Curtiss, Alec Nichols, Kenadie Nichols, Lakin Simmons, and Dorian Nichols and 4 great grandchildren (Naomi, Brently, and Zachary Curtiss) and Cruz Walker. John often said that grandchildren were the “sunshine of his life”.

John’s first job was at Borden Burger Foods, one of the first fast food restaurants in Parkersburg. As a senior in high school, he became an Assistant Manager.

John retired from Wood Co. School where he had many jobs. He drove bus for kids, transported buses from the factory, provided maintenance on buses and was a cook in an elementary school. He was an active member in the Parkersburg Elks Lodge 198 holding many positions and often cooking for events.

He liked playing pool and was pretty good at it. He participated in several leagues and made an annual trip for many years to play in pool tournaments in Las Vegas.

John also loved auto racing – both NASCAR and dirt track racing. He drove stock cars when he was young, built cars. He also supported other drivers by working on their cars.

John was a kind, and generous soul. He was always helping others and would give the shirt off of his back.

Visitation will be from 11-1 on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home with funeral to follow at 1. Burial will be in Sunset Memory Gardens where his parents are buried.

An online guestbook for condolences is available at www.sunsetparkersburg.com

Sunset Memorial Funeral Home is honored to assist the Nichols family.