William “Bill” Ray Nichols, 78, of Seymour, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, August 23, 2023, at Schneck Medical Center in Seymour.  He was born on September 24, 1944, in Borden, IN the son of Ray and Gertrude (Jackson) Nichols.  On April 20, 1968, he married Nancy Bridgewater at the First United Methodist Church in Seymour, and she survives.

In addition to his wife Nancy, Bill is survived by three children, John Hercamp of Texas, Elizabeth (Scott) Carter of Texas and Andrew “Andy” (Erin) Nichols of Alexandria, IN; Nine grandchildren, Ashlee, Katie, Emily, Jacob, Alexandra, Harrison, Meredith, Emily and Addison.  In addition to his children and grandchildren, Bill is also survived by several great grandchildren; two brothers, Donald Young and Perry Young; a brother-in-law, Rick (Brenda) Bridgewater of Seymour and a sister-in-law, Carol Tolen of Seymour.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Robert “Bob” Nichols.

Bill graduated from Borden High School in 1963.  Soon after graduating high school, he enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served during the Vietnam War.  After serving his country in the United States Air Force, Bill began a career in law enforcement where he served the city of Seymour as a police officer, wearing badge number seven.  He served the city of Seymour proudly and retired from the police force after thirteen years.  After retirement he volunteered at the Lutheran Community Home of Seymour where he could be heard on bingo night calling out the numbers or he would be assisting the residents with transportation to chapel services or going to doctors visits.

In Bill’s free time he could be found fishing at one of his favorite ponds or spending time with his family especially his grandkids whom he loved dearly.  He had the gift of hospitality and wasn’t afraid to meet anyone.  He was an avid lover of Chinese food especially Chinese buffets.  He was a member of the American Legion, VFW and FOP post in Seymour.  He was also an active member of Redeemer Lutheran Church where he was part of the Kenya Mission Project.  He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Funeral services for Bill will be held on Tuesday, August 29, 2023, at 11 a.m. at the Redeemer Lutheran Church in Seymour with Rev. Andrew J. Currao and Rev. Zachary R. Huffman officiating.  Burial will follow at Riverview Cemetery where military honors will be conducted.  Visitation will be held on Monday, August 28, 2023, from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. at the Voss and Sons Funeral Home and from 10 a.m. until the time of services at 11 a.m. on Tuesday at Redeemer Lutheran Church.

Memorial contributions may be made to Redeemer Lutheran Church Kenya Mission Project.

Online condolences may be made at www.vossfuneralservice.com

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted with the Voss & Sons Funeral and Cremation Services of Seymour.

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