Thomas "Tom" Nichols

Thomas "Tom" Nichols, a dedicated and respected individual, passed away at his residence on August 4, 2024. He was born on December 20, 1934, in Tishomingo, Mississippi. Tom's legacy is defined by his remarkable career and unwavering love for his family.

Tom devoted over 34 years of his life to Chrysler Financial, ultimately retiring as an executive. He held a special place in the company's history as the last remaining member of the original group of employees hired when they first opened their doors. Beyond his professional achievements, Tom proudly served in the United States Army and later as a police officer in Baltimore, Maryland. His quick thinking and heroic actions during an automobile accident earned him the highest commendation for saving a life through CPR and first aid.

Known for his passion for farming and gardening, Tom was raised on a farm and continued to cultivate a large garden every year. Some affectionately referred to him as a "Closet Car Salesman" due to his enjoyment of car dealing. However, above all else, Tom cherished his family deeply. Many of them resided on their beloved 20-acre family land in Benton, Arkansas.

Tom is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Mary Nichols; his children: Thomas Scott Nichols and wife Lynette, Sandra Raney, and Tracey Hines and husband Brady; grandchildren: Angie Ellison and husband Jeff, Keith Nichols, Lacie Raney, Rachel Knowles and husband Devin, Stephanie Bartley, Shelly Yarnell and husband Clayton, Meagan Kerr, and Mandy Kerr; great-grandchildren: Claire Ellison, Sloan Ellison, Edith Ellison, Barrett Knowles, Kolton Bartley, Addison Bartley, Ethan Yarnell, Savannah Barnett, and Mason Tyler; along with a host of other family members and friends who will always remember Tom fondly.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents Arlis and Lois (Reno) Nichols; as well as his siblings Dolan Nichols, Jeanette Marchsbanks, and Eleanor Hodges.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at the Family Residence in Benton on August 10th. Family and friends are invited to gather starting at noon and continuing until 3:00 PM.

Memorials may be made to a charity of your choice.

 Tom will be dearly missed but forever remembered for his kindness, dedication to family and country, and unwavering spirit that touched the lives of many.