Dates
Nolan Earl Nichols, 86, of Wall, TX passed away on September 22, 2026. He was born on March 24, 1940 in Birmingham, Alabama, to parents Britts and Lucinda Nichols. He was the husband of Rita Nichols and the father of Chris Nichols.
There’s something about a name, and a lot of thought goes into the naming process. A name is an essential part of human identity, serving as a road sign that distinguishes us from others. My Dad’s name was Nolan Earl Nichols, given to him in March of 1940. We all recognize famous names, ones associated with musicians, academic scholars, and superior athletes. My dad was none of those. But, everyone knew his name. As a child, when I would visit his hometown in Kimberly, Alabama, we would visit Sandlin’s Grocery or the Fisherman’s Shop, and I thought he was the most popular man in town. The only problem I had was every time the same people saw me, they addressed me as "Nolan’s boy.” This infuriated my immature understanding of the significance of a name. Inside, my mind was raging, “My name is not Nolan’s boy! It’s Chris!” I wanted a name, and to be recognized for who I was. All through life, I never heard a bad word said about my dad. He was simply known to others as “one of the good ones.” He was great man, a simple one. A man with a big smile and even larger heart. He loved his family; my mom, my wife, his grandkids, great grandkids, and me more than anything. He also loved others; friends, relatives, and even strangers. I’m happy that I knew the man I called “Dad” and others knew as “Papa” or “Nolan.” Now that I finally understand the significance of a name, I consider it an honor for people to simply recognize me as “Nolan’s Boy.” That’s a great name.
Sincerely,
Chris Nichols—Nolan’s Boy
He is preceded in death by his wife Rita, parents Britts and Lucinda, and twin brother Roland.
He is survived by his son Chris Nichols and wife Amy, his grandchildren Garrett Nichols and wife Hannah, Grant Nichols and wife Ashlyn, and Calista Nichols, his great grandchildren Julianna, Joanna, Genevieve, Whitley, and Dovey Joe Nichols. He is also survived by his sister Rhonda Bullock and husband Hassell, along with several nieces and nephews.
Nolan certainly would want to recognize his longtime friend Brian Brakefield, of Kimberly, Alabama with whom he had many adventures and good times. We would also like to thank the staff of Menard Manor for the exceptional care and the love you gave Nolan. You brought a smile to his face.
The Celebration of Life will be at 10:30 A.M., Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Wall Brethren Church in Wall TX.
In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Wall Brethren Church or West Texas Rehabilitation Center Hospice of San Angelo.
Family and friends may share condolences at www.harper-funeralhome.com.