Obituary of Lee Bruce Nichols

Lee B. Nichols of Big Flats passed away peacefully at home on Jan. 21st, 2023. He was born and raised in Spartansburg,PA, the son of Robert and Florence (Newton) Nichols. He graduated from Wheaton College, IL with a BA degree and served as a 2nd Lieutenant with the 35th Infantry, Co.B, 1st platoon in Viet Nam. He was wounded in action on July 3rd, 1966 and was awarded the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star Medal with "V" device for heroic actions while serving as the platoon leader. After discharge he graduated from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary with a Master of Divinity and later a Master of Psychology from Edinboro University in PA. He worked in various human services positions in PA, OH, IN and NY and retired from the Mohawk Valley Psychiatric Center in 2001 where he worked as a Psychologist for 12 years. In retirement he enjoyed kayaking, bicycling, reading, lunches out, and several trips across the country. He continued his study of Christianity and the early Quakers and found "The Great Courses" helpful in pursuing his many other interests. Lee also volunteered his time at the Elmira Correctional Facility for several years leading groups of prisoners in Bible study. He immersed himself in several ancestry sites to uncover missing parts of his family tree and found some surprises. He is survived by his wife Monica Foley Nichols. They were married in Rome, NY in 2001. He also leaves his sister Ruth Shenk of Phoenix, AZ and several nieces and nephews. A graveside service will take place in the spring at the Rose Hill Cemetery in Spartansburg, PA. Many neighbors and friends have been so generous with their time in helping Lee and Monica during these past months and we are so grateful to each and every one. We also thank Care First for their guidance and help through this process.