Katherine Nichols

Katherine Nichols, longtime resident of San Antonio, died October 14 at her home. She is survived by her two sons, a sister, granddaughter Sydney, great-granddaughter Vivienne and many dear nieces and nephews. Her sons are extremely appreciative of the expert nursing care and heartful support their cousin Connie Kowat provided during her Aunt Katherine's last days.

In 2006, Katherine was saddened by the loss of her sister Louisa. She cherished the closeness she had with her surviving sister Joanna Tsalapatas of Charleston, SC.

Katherine was born in 1923 in Cleveland, Ohio, to hardworking, devout Greek Orthodox immigrants, Anna and Bartholomew Nikoloudis. The oldest of three daughters, she helped raise her younger sisters after their mother died when Katherine was twelve. The experience forged for Katherine, her sisters and their father a very close bond lasting the rest of their lives.

In 1947, Katherine married Dan Nichols in South Carolina where their first son, John, was born. After the young family moved to San Antonio, son Bart was born. Katherine delighted in being mother to her two boys. Growing up, they had no idea that dinner each night was prepared by the alleged best Greek cook in San Antonio.

Katherine greatly enjoyed working for many years in the law offices of attorneys Jed Maebius, Edgar Duncan and Chialing Liu. She worked diligently to develop outstanding office skills and, although not in her job description, she showered them with motherly care.

Among her greatest joys were to be Yiayia to granddaughter Sydney and great-granddaughter Vivienne. Her outpouring of unconditional love toward them was something we should all emulate.

Katherine was delighted by the pure beauty of the world around her. Simple pleasures brought her the most joy. A glass of very cold ice water always elicited, "That is so good." During a car ride, she would often exclaim, "Oh, what a beautiful tree!" The sight of a child made her glow with fondness and a smile.

She will be terribly missed but affectionately remembered by family and friends for her genuine soul, dignified presence and fantastic Greek cooking. Her sisters and her sons will forever appreciate her motherly love and guidance. Her generous heart made her a "favorite" of all who met her.

May her memory be eternal.

Visitation will be held on Monday, October 19th from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Porter Loring on McCullough with a Trisagion at 7:00 p.m. in the chapel. A private burial will be held for the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Church, 2504 N. St. Mary's St., San Antonio, TX 78212.