Randall Kent Nichols

1944 - 2026

Randall Kent Nichols, 81, of Carlisle, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2026. He was born on October 3, 1944, in Kansas City, Missouri, to the late Gladys Thatcher and Lindley Nichols.

Randall shared 41 devoted years with his loving wife, E. Montine (McDaniel) Nichols, and together they built a life centered on family, learning, and service. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his five children — Robin Lynn Zeiter (Ron), Randall Kent Nichols II (Kendra), Phillip Kent Nichols (Kira), Diana Kathryn Nichols, and Michelle Lynn Nichols — as well as five grandchildren: Brandon Scott Nichols, Madison Rose Nichols, Ryan Alexander Zeiter, Kara Danielle Zeiter, and Greyson Kent Nichols. He is also survived by his sister, Nancy Nichols.

Randall’s love of learning shaped every chapter of his life. He attended Tulane University, graduating in 1967 with a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering. His passion for education continued as he earned an MBA from the University of Houston and a Master’s in Chemical Engineering from Texas A&M University–Kingsville. Randall was a lifelong student in the truest sense — always curious, always reading, and always eager to expand his understanding of the world.

Randall began his career path in chemical engineering, but it led to him discovering his lifelong passion and true purpose in academia. Thus, Randall dedicated more than 52 years to academia,  shaping more than 14,000 students across the globe through his work as a professor and mentor. His distinguished career culminated in his retirement from Kansas State University – Salina, where he was honored as Senior Professor Emeritus. A prolific writer, he authored 15 textbooks, leaving behind a legacy that will help shape the global impact of cybersecurity and operations.

Beyond the classroom, Randall lived a life rich with passion and purpose. He was an avid boat captain, happiest on the water; a Distinguished Toastmaster, known for his eloquence and encouragement of others; a steadfast military supporter and proud Army Dad; and above all, a loving husband and father whose guidance and huge heart anchored his family.

Randall’s life was marked by curiosity, dedication, and a deep commitment to helping others grow. His influence will continue through the many lives he touched — family, students, colleagues, and friends.

A visitation will begin at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 7, 2026, followed by a funeral service at 3:00 p.m. in the Ewing Brothers Funeral Home, 630 S. Hanover St., Carlisle, PA.  The  graveside/burial service will be in Sand Hill Cemetery  Thursday, March 12 at 2:00pm in Des Arc, Arkansas.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or Tunnels for Towers.