Julius N. "Billy" Nichols Jr.

OBITUARY

Julius Nathaniel "Billy" Nichols Jr. was born on July 13, 1941, to the late Alberta L. (Taylor) and Julius Nichols at their family home on Felix Avenue in Memphis, Tennessee. He was the youngest of their two children and shared a special sibling bond with his big sister Rosemary.

In 1942, the family relocated to Cleveland, Ohio, as part of the Great Migration and resided with the late Bishop R.F. Williams of C.O.G.I.C. and his wife, Rosa (Nichols) Williams, his paternal aunt. Julius confessed faith in Christ at an early age.

Julius graduated from Glenville High School, class of '59, where he forged friendships that have withstood the passing of time and the turns of life. His community involvement reflected a deep commitment to service. Julius served as President of the Glenville Alumni Association and was actively involved with the Optimist Club and the Glenville High School Hall of Fame Committee. In 1984, the proud Tarblooder was inducted into the Glenville High School Hall of Fame.

After graduation, Julius studied at Ohio University before starting his distinguished military career in 1961, enlisting in the United States Army. Driven, dedicated, and deeply patriotic, he quickly rose through the ranks, ultimately earning the title of Captain in the 1st Infantry Division. His service took him across the globe, including deployments to Korea and Vietnam, where he served with courage and distinction. Among his many honors were the Bronze Star, Army Commendation Medal, and National Defense Service Medal, along with a host of other recognitions for valor and leadership. He was honorably discharged in April of 1969.

Fate and admiration brought Julius and Delores Mae Park together at the NCO Club at Ft. Eustis, Virginia in September of 1964. What began as a long-distance courtship soon led to marriage in March of 1965, in Hampton, Virginia. Shortly afterward, Julius entered Officer Candidate School, beginning another chapter of service that included time at Ft. Benning, GA; in Vietnam; and George G. Meade, MD. After returning to Cleveland, the couple eventually welcomed the birth of their son, Julius "Jay" Nichols III. A year later the family made Warrensville Heights their home.

Transitioning from military to civilian life, Julius embarked on a successful career in sales. His knack for communication, integrity, and unrelenting work ethic helped him thrive in a wide range of industries. He never shied away from a challenge – and he always brought his signature excellence to the table for industry leaders such as Xerox, Sears, and The Home Depot over the years. In time, his journey in life led him to remarry. He and his beloved Donna were married 41 years. Together, they enjoyed a blended family that brought them great joy and priceless memories over the years. Proud Tarblooders and lifelong sports enthusiasts, they supported the Cavs and Browns through every season – win or lose – held basketball season tickets, loved attending football games and training camps, and often sported team gear. Family could always count on celebrating Thanksgiving at their home.

In his spare time, Julius was the family's unofficial historian, documenting decades of gatherings and everyday moments in carefully arranged photo albums. A talented artist as well, he shared his gift of drawing and sketching on occasion – influencing the creativity in his only son, Jay. Julius cherished birthdays – from Double Nichols '96 to the LXX White Party in '11, he enjoyed hosting family and friends. His heart for service was evident in the countless hours he spent volunteering and supporting local causes. He remained deeply involved in PTAs and neighborhood HOAs over the years. Julius was a life member of VFW Post 3345 – Strongsville and proudly served as an honor guard. He was also a life member of The American Legion Berea Post 91 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6676 – Brook Park. His unshakeable drive, sense of humor, and determined spirit will forever be remembered.

Julius was preceded in death by his parents, Julius and Alberta Nichols, and his dear sister, Rosemary Nichols.

Julius departed this life on July 18, 2025, after a brave battle with Parkinson's disease and the recent passing of his devoted wife, Donna. He leaves to cherish his memory, his only son and namesake, Julius "Jay" Nichols III; daughters, Catherine Rowell and Angela Jackson (Gene); granddaughters, Taylor Jackson and Paige Rowell; niece Terri Hamilton Brown (Darnell) and nephew, Ronald E. Hamilton II, who held a special place in his heart, along with a host of cousins, extended family members, neighbors, and lifelong friends.