With profound sadness and immeasurable love, we celebrate the life of Tremayne Demarr “TJ” Nicholson Jr., a beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew, friend, teammate, and student whose light shined brightly for far too short a time.
TJ was born on Friday, April 9, 2010, in Mobile, Alabama, and from the very beginning, he brought joy to everyone around him. Affectionately known as the “Gentle Giant,” TJ was admired for his towering presence, gentle spirit, beautiful smile, long eyelashes, and an infectious sense of humor that could brighten even the darkest day. His unwavering loyalty, boundless curiosity, quiet bravery, and compassionate heart made him someone people naturally gravitated toward. He loved deeply, laughed often, and gave his kindness freely to everyone fortunate enough to know him.
TJ was preparing to enter the 11th grade at Salem High School in Virginia Beach, Virginia, where he had become a cherished member of the school community. A talented and dedicated student, he had recently been accepted into the Virginia Beach Technical and Career Education Center’s Electrical Trades Program, an achievement that reflected his ambition and excitement for the future.
TJ embraced every opportunity to be involved. He proudly played the tuba in the Salem High School Band, filling the stands with music and school spirit. On the field, he demonstrated determination, teamwork, and perseverance as both a Junior Varsity and Varsity football & lacrosse player. Whether performing with his band family or competing alongside his teammates, TJ’s encouraging nature and positive attitude left a lasting impression on those around him.
Beyond school, TJ found joy in life’s simple moments. He loved cooking, trying new recipes, spending time with his beloved girlfriend, Samantha, playing video games with his twin brothers, and making memories with his many friends. He treasured every laugh, every conversation, and every moment shared with the people he loved.
TJ was the cherished son of retired US Navy Senior Chief Tremayne Nicholson Sr., and Kellee Nicholson, a devoted registered nurse whose nurturing love shaped the compassionate young man he became. Together, they raised a son whose character reflected the very best of their love, guidance, and unwavering support.
It truly took a village to love TJ, and what an incredible village it was. He was surrounded by devoted family, loyal friends, caring classmates, dedicated teachers, supportive coaches, fellow students, and parents who watched him grow into an exceptional young man. The overwhelming outpouring of love shown during the candlelight vigil held in his honor at Salem High School was a beautiful testament to the countless lives he touched and the lasting impact he made within his community.
One of TJ’s most extraordinary acts of kindness came through a decision he made shortly after receiving his driver’s license at age sixteen. Choosing to become an organ donor, TJ made a selfless commitment to give others the gift of life. In his final act of generosity, medical staff at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital honored him with a moving Honor Walk as he was escorted to the operating room. Even in passing, TJ continued to embody the compassion and generosity that defined his life, leaving behind a legacy that will forever live on in those whose lives he touched.
He was preceded in death by his paternal grandmother, Bernadette Nicholson Dowell; his maternal great-grandmother, Charlotte Jackson; and his maternal grandfather, Sherman L. Jackson Sr.
He leaves to cherish his precious memory his loving parents, Kellee Nicholson and Tremayne Nicholson Sr.; his devoted sister, Trelynn Nicholson; his beloved twin brothers, Lennox Nicholson and Lorenz Nicholson; his grandparents, Colette and Dale Hayman of Newark, Delaware, and Ronnie and Diane Hawkes of Killeen, Texas; his first and forever love, Samantha Schill; along with a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and countless friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.
Although TJ’s earthly journey has ended, his legacy of love, kindness, courage, and compassion will never fade. His laughter will continue to echo in the memories he created. His gentle heart will continue to inspire acts of kindness. His selflessness will continue to give life and hope to others. His spirit will forever remain woven into the lives of everyone blessed to know him.
The measure of a life is not found in the number of years lived, but in the love shared, the lives touched, and the difference made. In just sixteen years, TJ accomplished all of those things beyond measure.
Our Gentle Giant will never be forgotten.
“Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day.
Unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, and very dear.”
A Celebration of Life honoring “TJ” will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at 12:00 noon at Altmeyer Funeral Home – Southside Chapel, 5033 Rouse Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23462. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be livestreamed.
The Nicholson family welcomes your memories, condolences, and messages of support here.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Tremayne “TJ” Nicholson Jr. Memorial Fund. The family appreciates your prayers, support, and generosity as they honor TJ’s life and memory.
