Gene Nichols died on November 14, 2023, in Newport News, the same city where he was born 80 years earlier. One of three children born to the late Ella Lee Didlake and Benjamin Price Nichols, Gene grew up in Rocky Mount, VA. In 1964, he returned to Newport News where he remained for nearly 60 years, starting his own plumbing business, Gene Nichols, Inc. in 1975. He married his wife, Diane in 1978 and was married for 45 years.
Gene loved spending time with his family and especially enjoyed attending sporting events when his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren competed in athletics and racing. Gene was a longtime supporter of Langley Speedway and as the head of Nichols Racing, Gene took great pride in his sons’ and grandson’s racing success. Gene was also an avid golfer who belonged to the Williamsburg Country Club and was an active member of Elks Lodge #315. Known for his big heart and genuine concern for others, Gene deeply loved his family, many friends, and animals; they all adored him and his generous spirit.
In addition to his beloved wife Diane, Gene is survived by his children Robyn (Amy), Ryan (Heather), Whitney, David (Sherri) and Courtney (Troy); his grandchildren, Nichole, Paige, Dale, Joey, Cheyenne, Adam and Skye; several great-grandchildren whom he cherished, as well as his sister, Shirley Nichols Spangler; many nieces and nephews and dear friends, Johnny, Cindy and Angel. Gene was predeceased by his parents, his brother, Carey Lee “Gary” Nichols, son-in-law, Rick Dunn and grandson, Jimmy Dunn.
A Memorial Service will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, November 17, 2023 at Weymouth Funeral Home with visitation to follow.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to the Peninsula SPCA or the American Cancer Society.
