1935 - 2026
Born on July 16th, 1935, in Springfield, Massachusetts, Richard was the son of the late Wolford and Gladys (Gray) Nichols. He was the devoted husband of Janet L. (Dunbrack) Nichols, with whom he built a life centered on faith, family, and service.
Richard is survived by his daughters, Karen L. Runnells, Susan G. Morse and her husband, Benjamin, Deborah A. Dauphinais, all of Massachusetts, and Donna L. Nichols of Virginia. His legacy continues through his ten grandchildren—Becky, Benjamin, Charlie, Sam, Brian, Lisa, Rachel, Sarah, Lindsey, and Alyssa—and his ten great-grandchildren: Noah, Luke, Mark, Owen, Emmie, Brodie, Athena, Trevinn, Greyson, and Orrin.
A graduate of Springfield High School, Class of 1954, Richard proudly served in the United States Air Force as a radar technician, flying missions that helped protect the nation's West Coast. After his military service, he continued his education at Dean College and Framingham State University, earning additional professional certifications that launched a successful career in the computer industry.
Throughout his career, Richard served as a computer hardware manager for several leading technology companies, including Honeywell, Sanders Associates, Raytheon, Digital Equipment Corporation, and Data General. He earned the respect of colleagues through his professionalism, dedication, and technical expertise.
Richard is also survived by his brother, Douglas Nichols of Maryland. He was predeceased by his brother, Bruce Nichols, who passed away in January 2025.
Those who knew Richard will remember his steadfast faith, gentle spirit, and willingness to help others. His love for his family and his quiet acts of kindness left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Funeral services will be held at the Valley Chapel located at 14 Hunter Road in Uxbridge, at a date and time to be announced.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Samaritan's Purse, a ministry of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, supporting disaster relief efforts.
