Sammy Lee Nichols, 83, of Brownwood, peacefully passed away on July 18, 2024, surrounded by his beloved family. Born on April 30, 1941, to Overton Harris Nichols and Bernice Polk Nichols, Sam lived a life marked by faith, love, and service.
A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Sam is survived by his wife of 56 years, Patricia Hornsey Nichols; children Sammy Lee Nichols II of Coppell, and Shawn Lynn Nichols of Temple; grandchildren Grace Elaine Nichols and Sammy Lee Nichols III of Denton. Additionally, he is survived by one sister Betty Traylor (Jerry); sister-in-law Beverly Arldt (Herman), and brother-in-law Randy Hornsey. His legacy also includes numerous nieces and nephews along with being a surrogate father to Shirley Kinkead Wilson (Bret) and Stacy Kinkead Tennison. He was Papa Sam to surrogate grandson John Garrett Hagood (Courtney) and was a surrogate great-grandfather to Heidi Jane Hagood. Moreover, he is survived by innumerable friends who greatly enriched his life. Sam is preceded in death by his parents, Overton Harris Nichols and Bernice Polk Nichols, two infant sons, and his brothers Bobby Nichols and Edwin Nichols.
His unwavering faith in Christ was evident to all who knew Sam. As a long-time member of Southside Baptist Church, he served in various capacities, including deacon, Sunday School Director, and member of multiple committees. His deep commitment to the church and its mission was reflected in his everyday actions and interactions. Further, Sam served over forty years on the Board of Directors at Mid-Tex Federal Credit Union and in various offices of the Brown County Board of Realtors including the Office of President. He also volunteered with the Brown County Youth Fair and Rodeo Association for many years.
Sam completed his high school education at Bangs Independent School District and earned a business degree at Howard Payne College. He also proudly served the nation as a member of the Army National Guard Reserve for six years. His career included over thirty-two years of employee dedication in the Purchasing Department of the Brownwood 3M Company. After retirement, Sam began a twenty-five-year second career at Stegemoller Realty where he assisted buyers and sellers in bringing their real-estate plans to fruition. In this capacity, he most greatly enjoyed showing clients the landscape of Central Texas and assisting them through property purchases in this rural area of rolling fields, cattle, and breathtaking sunsets.
Sam is remembered for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering integrity. His heart for serving God and applying His Word in daily life benefited all who were blessed to know him. His desire to see others come to personal and deep relationships with the Father guided every decision that he made and often led friends and neighbors to seek his wise counsel.
Sam Nichol’s life was truly a testament to his faith in Jesus Christ. He lived with a servant’s heart, always putting others before himself. His legacy is one of faith, love, and unwavering devotion to his Lord and Savior.
The family will receive friends at Heartland Funeral Home on Friday evening, July 26, from 6:00 to 8:00. A Celebration of Life service at Southside Baptist Church will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, July 27, with Pastor Alan Wallace and Pastor David Bryant officiating. A private family burial will take place prior to the service.
Memorial donations may be made to Southside Baptist Church, the American Cancer Society, or the Mid-Tex Federal Credit Union Scholarship Fund.
The Nichols family extends their heartfelt appreciation to all who have offered love, prayers, and support during this difficult time. While Sam will be deeply missed, his spirit lives on in the hearts of those he touched. Therefore, it is not an understatement to relate that the ripple effect of this great man’s life will continue for generations to come.
The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the Abilene Hendrick Medical Center staff and to Hendrick Hospice Care.
Condolences, memories, and tributes can be offered to the Nichols family online at heartlandfuneralhome.com