Julius Alton "Nick" Nichols

Julius Alton Nichols, Jr. ("Nick"), 78, of Hillsborough, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on November 19, 2025. Born on February 12, 1947, in Durham, North Carolina, Nick lived a life rooted in faith, family, and
service to his country and community.
Nick was the son of Julius Alton Nichols, Sr. (Alton) and Theresa Hochgesang Nichols (Terry), both veterans of the United States Army who served during World War II. His parents' dedication to service set an example that shaped Nick's life and values. He grew up in Durham alongside his sister, Mary. Nick graduated from Durham High in 1965.
Nick proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1967 to 1971. As a Munitions Maintenance Specialist Explosive Operator in the 4403 Munitions Maintenance Squadron, he supported operations during the Vietnam War, spending part of his service stationed in Okinawa. He achieved the rank of Sergeant, a testament to his skill and dedication.
On October 23, 1971, Nick married Betsy Ross, the love of his life. Both were raised in Durham, met at Asbury United Methodist Church, and later exchanged their vows there. Together, Nick and Betsy shared 54 years of marriage, raising their family in Hillsborough, where Betsy continues to reside in their cherished family home. In 2013, they became devoted members of New Sharon Methodist Church, where they formed lasting friendships and deepened their faith.
Nick worked for Liggett & Myers Tobacco Company in Durham before beginning a long and respected career in law enforcement. He earned his Advanced Law Enforcement Certification from the North Carolina Department of Justice. Nick served with the North Carolina State Highway Patrol Motor Carrier Enforcement Division at the Hillsborough Weigh Station, where he faithfully protected the safety of North Carolina's highways. He retired on May 1, 2003, after many years of devoted service.
Above all, Nick was a devoted family man. He is survived by his wife, Betsy Ross Nichols; his son, Chris Nichols and wife, Virginia of Clemmons; his daughter, Julie Nichols of Kernersville; his sister, Mary Byrnes and
husband, Don of Shelby; and his beloved grandsons, Matthew and Ryan Nichols along with many extended family members.
Nick loved life's simple and meaningful pleasures. He enjoyed working outdoors, lending a hand on the family farm, and later found great happiness camping with Betsy-and often with Chris and family. He treasured traveling with family and friends, and he found purpose and fellowship within the New Sharon Church community. He and Julie developed an immense love of Duke basketball. Often, they watched games together and cheered with immense spirit (and volume).
Nick will be remembered for his steady kindness, unwavering faith, devotion to his family, and a lifetime spent caring for others. His legacy lives on in the loved ones he cherished and in all who were blessed to know him.
A memorial service will be conducted on Sunday, November 23 at New Sharon Church (1601 New Sharon Church Road) in Hillsborough at 2:00pm. The family will receive friends after the service. In lieu of flowers,
donations may be made to the New Sharon Church Cemetery Fund.
The family is being assisted by Clements Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc. in Durham/Hillsborough. Online condolences may be sent to www.clementsfuneralservice.com.