Thomas "Tommy" Nichols

Thomas “Tommy” Nichols, 87, of Wharton, West Virginia, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, April 9, 2026, after battling a long illness. He was born on December 1, 1938, in Olive Hill, Kentucky, a place he held dear to his heart. Tommy proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army. During his time in service, he traveled throughout the United States and to Germany, standing ready during the Cuban Missile Crisis. His skill and dedication earned him the honor of sharpshooter, a distinction he carried with quiet pride. He held tight to the many fond memories he gained of the places he traveled to and of the people he met during his service. After his military service, Tommy dedicated 28 years of his life to coal mining with Eastern Associated/Peabody Coal Company. Through grit, determination, and unwavering commitment, he earned his foreman certification and later worked as a fire boss, a reflection of both his leadership and the respect he garnered from those who worked alongside him. While Tommy’s work ethic was unmatched, his greatest devotion was always to his family. A loyal and loving husband of 60 years, he built a life grounded in love, strength, and support. As a father, he worked tirelessly to provide, always placing his family first. Becoming a grandfather brought him immense joy, and later, becoming a great-grandfather filled his heart in ways words cannot fully express. In retirement, Tommy embraced the simple pleasures that brought him happiness. He was an avid supporter of the Van Bulldogs, attending events of all sports. He found both joy and peace in gardening and birdwatching, especially when those moments were shared with his dear friend, Roger Castle. He also took great delight in making others laugh and in sharing those moments of laughter with them. Known for always keeping up with the latest gadgets, Tommy loved staying connected, whether it was browsing Facebook, sending funny messages at all hours on Messenger, upgrading to the newest TVs and surround sound systems, or shopping on Amazon and QVC. These small joys reflected his lively spirit and love for staying engaged with the world around him. Tommy was preceded in death by his parents, Harlis Nichols and Jewell Marie (Conn) Nichols. He is survived by his loving wife, Garnet (Bonds) Nichols; his dear children, Tom Nichols, Jr. (Eva) and Penny Nichols-Green (Mike); his cherished grandchildren, Courtney Nichols, Nick Green (Kristen), Chelsea Nichols (Tracey), Lucas Nichols, and William Delisle; his beloved great-grandchild, Parker Dean Green; his siblings, Darlene Massey, Geraldine Nichols, Barbara Gail Harvey (Buddy), Coy Nichols, Shelvy Nichols, David Nichols (Janice), and Delbert “Duke” Nichols (Judy); along with a host of extended family members and dear friends who will miss him deeply. A celebration of Tommy’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 18, 2026 at Bim Freewill Baptist Church, 60 Beaver Pond Creek Road, Bim with Pastor Scottie Elswick officiating. Tommy will be laid to rest at Graceland Memorial Park in South Charleston, West Virginia, following the service. The family will receive friends from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Wharton Community Recreation Council, In Memory of Tommy Nichols, P.O. Box 12, Van, WV 25206. Tommy’s life was one of love, service, laughter, and unwavering devotion. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff of WVU Thomas Memorial Hospital ICU, Select Specialty at CAMC Memorial and Dr. Howard Stanton, M.D. for the exceptional care, compassion and support shown during this difficult time. Their kindness and professionalism will never be forgotten. You may visit Tommy’s tribute page at BartlettNichols.com to share memories and condolences with the family. Bartlett-Nichols Funeral Home, locally owned and located at 409 Sixth Ave., St. Albans is honored to serve the Nichols family.

Thomas "Tommy" Nichols

December 1, 1938 - April 9, 2026