Arthur K. Nichols

Arthur Kenneth Nichols, aged 85 of Beavercreek OH, passed away on October 25, 2021. He fought so hard everyday with his soul, mind, and spirit, only to be defeated by his body.

Originally from Clay County, WV, Arthur was a 1954 graduate of Clay County High School, the son of Kelles and Beulah (Grose) Nichols of Clay, who preceded Arthur in death in 1981 and 1998 respectively.

Arthur was also preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Margaret Sharon (Ramsey) Nichols of Ivydale, WV in 2017, and by brothers and sisters Milford Nichols, Chilton Nichols, Lenwood Nichols, Willa Dean Fitzwater, Brisen Nichols, Wilma Jean Workman, and Evangeline Nichols.

Arthur is survived by 4 sons: Arthur David (Beth) Nichols of Wesley Chapel, FL; Roger (Celeste) Nichols of Newark, OH; Kelvin (Phyllis) Nichols of Columbus, OH; and Larry (Angela) Nichols of Beavercreek OH. The joy of his life were his 11 grandchildren: Stephanie Hobson of Tampa FL; Matthew Nichols of Tampa FL; Christopher Nichols of Newark OH; Emily Nichols of Newark OH; Logan Nichols of Cincinnati OH; Hayden, Benjamin, Evan, Harrison, Mei-Lynn, and Kai-Li Nichols of Beavercreek OH, and one great grandson, Jett, of Tampa, FL. The knowledge "grandpa" was able to impart, the many lessons learned, the advice and encouragement always offered, the countless stories that were told, the puzzles put together one piece at a time, the games watched, and most importantly the love shared, has paid off in indelible and infinite dividends.

He is also survived by brothers Clinton Nichols of Clay, WV; Marshall Nichols of Newton WV; and Glenwood Nichols of Mogadore, OH; and too many nieces and nephews to list.

Arthur was a faithful and active member of First Baptist Church of Kettering and the Church at Eastmont. Throughout his life, he served in almost all roles of leadership in church, including church planter, filling the pulpit, leading music, Sunday school Director, Church Training Director, Chairman of Deacons, and Sunday School Teacher.

Alongside his wife Sharon, Arthur was involved in planting several churches, even starting some in their living room, including Sharon Woods Baptist Church in Columbus OH, First Baptist Church of Westerville OH, and Arrowbrook Baptist Church in Xenia OH. Art and Sharon's home was always a welcoming environment for family, friend, and stranger; often opening their home for extended periods of time to people in crisis. You could always count on biscuits, fried chicken, chocolate chip cookies, and a kind and compassionate ear.

Arthur's professional portfolio included Taxi Driver, FBI Clerk, Typesetter, Proofreader, and Printer.

All who knew Arthur knew him to be a hardworking, kind, and gentle man. His legacy will be one of faithfulness, generosity, and service to the Kingdom, and others. He was an avid reader, gardener, historian, numismatist, handy-man, and sports fan who enjoyed watching the Reds and West Virginia football.

For Arthur, who loved Jesus with his whole heart, to live was Christ and to die was gain.


The family will receive friends at First Baptist Church of Kettering, 3939 Swigart Road, Dayton OH 45440 for a viewing on November 1, 2021 at 10:00am with a memorial service immediately following at 11:00am. Family and friends are also welcome at a graveside committal service at the Ramsey Family Cemetary, in Ivydale WV on November 2, 2021 at 2:00pm.

In Lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Ohio's Hospice of Dayton, or First Baptist Kettering Vision Fund.

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