DeArtis Nickerson

DeArtis Nickerson Sr., affectionately known as “Debo,” was born on September 4, 1938, in Henderson County, Texas, to the late Velma Jackson and Adcus Nickerson Sr. He peacefully transitioned from this life on January 12, 2026, answering the Lord’s call to eternal rest.

DeArtis moved to Mineral Wells, Texas, as a child and graduated from Dunbar High School. In 1957, he married Willie Gardner, and together they shared 55 years of marriage until her transition to eternal rest. DeArtis was blessed with six children: Theresa Doyle (Darrell), Mitchell Bell (Cherie), DeArtis Nickerson Jr., Gabriel Nickerson (Ida), Fredia Sneed (Willie), and Lilly Nickerson. He was a devoted father and a proud Papa, and his legacy continues through 11 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.

DeArtis found love a second time and married Josephine Davis in 2013. They shared twelve wonderful years together. Through this union, he lovingly welcomed five additional children into his family: Ida Nickerson, Jean Roberson, Wanda Shaw, Abner Davis, and Darren Simpson.

Affectionately known as “Brother Nick,” DeArtis was a man of unwavering faith and deep devotion to God. He was a faithful member of Bethel Baptist Church for 63 years, where he served in numerous leadership roles at both the local and state levels. His service included Trustee of the Deacon Board, Brotherhood President at Bethel, and President of the Brotherhood for the Progressive West Texas District Association. A devoted student of the Word, Brother Nick shared his biblical knowledge by faithfully teaching Sunday School and the Brotherhood men each week.

DeArtis had a deep love for Mineral Wells and its community. He served as a City Councilman for several years and was instrumental in the implementation of the naming of Martin Luther King Jr. Street. He also served as Treasurer for the Dunbar Alumni Association. Professionally, he worked at MEPCO Electra as a Lead in Coding and later with the Mineral Wells Independent School District in the Maintenance Department, where he remained until retirement. In every role, DeArtis was known for his strong work ethic, dependability, and integrity.

On a personal note, Mr. Nickerson was the neighborhood and church handyman. If something needed to be repaired, replaced, or renovated, Brother Nick was the one to call. During the week, he worked with his hands; on Sundays, he showed up dressed to the max—a man of unmistakable style and pride.

As a man of faith, DeArtis trusted wholeheartedly in God’s promises throughout his life. His legacy of perseverance, love for family, service to others, and quiet strength will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Josephine Nickerson; his children; and three siblings: Arthur Nickerson, Jean Cross, and Lela Mae Davis. He was preceded in death by his parents and several siblings, including brothers Alonzo D. Nickerson, Adcus Nickerson Jr., Leslie Nickerson, and Willie Curtis Nickerson, and sisters Vessie Mae Ball and Billie Cross.

DeArtis trusted wholeheartedly in God’s promises throughout his life. His legacy of perseverance, love for family, service to others, and quiet strength will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him. He answered the Lord’s call and has gone home to be with his Savior.

Funeral service will be 2 p.m., Saturday, January 17, 2026 at First Baptist Church in Mineral Wells. He will be laid to rest at Woodland Park Cemetery.