Billy Nicholas

Colonel, (Ret.) Billy Bradley ?Buddy? Nicholas of Little Rock passed away March 22, 2008. He was born in Little Rock on April 28, 1924. He was a graduate of Little Rock Senior High Class of ?42. He enlisted in the Army Air Corps in November and was called to active duty in January ?43. He was a tail gunner on a B-17 aircraft and flew 34 missions with the 8th Air Force. He was discharged from the army in October ?45. He then enrolled in LRJC graduating in ?47.
Along with state assignments he was stationed in Japan, Korea, Germany, Hawaii, and Vietnam. Col. Nicholas received his BS Degree from Eastern Michigan University.
His many decorations included the air medal with four Oak Leaf Cluster, the silver star with oak leaf clusters for the Korean War and in Vietnam he received the legion of merit, bronze star and the cross of gallantry with silver star. His last active duty was as commander of Fort Chaffee, Arkansas.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Rita Call Nicholas.
He is survived by his two children; daughter, Rosalyn and husband Keith Shackelford of Baton Rouge, LA.; and son, Scott Nicholas and his wife Cherie of Fort Smith, AR. His Grandchildren are Adam Swales and John Bradley Shackelford; great granddaughter, Morgan Swales. Also survived by his wife, Lou Dellinger Nicholas of Little Rock; and her two children, Lori Dellinger Swanson and husband David, and Steven Dellinger. Also sharing his love are Rachael and Trevor Swanson and Grant Dellinger.
Memorials may be made to Parkway Place Baptist Church, 300 Parkway Place, Little Rock, 72211 or Hospice Home Care, 1501 N.University S.340, Little Rock, 72207.
A private family burial will be held at a later date. Arrangements made by North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main St., 758-1170. Online obituary and guest register at www.nlrfh.com.

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