Martha Jane Nichols

Martha Jane Nichols, a beacon of loving-kindness and gentleness, passed away peacefully of natural causes on November 19, 2025, in St. Joseph, Michigan. Born on January 30, 1942, in Tyronza, Arkansas, to the late Buford and Eva Mae (Ursery) McNeese, Martha's life was a testament to the power of nurturing and devotion.
Martha's early years in Tyronza laid the foundation for a life filled with compassion. She embodied the Christian values instilled in her and was a previous member of Bethel Baptist Church. Martha's journey in caregiving led her to receive her certification in nursing, a role she embraced wholeheartedly. As a Certified Nursing Assistant at Healthwin, she provided comfort and care to those in need, leaving a lasting impact on many lives.
Family was the cornerstone of Martha's world. She is lovingly remembered by her children, Mark (Tracy) Nichols, Sherrie Jones (Rick Herman), and Susan (Kim) Larrison, all of whom reside in Niles. Her legacy continues through her nine grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy and pride to her life. Martha's family circle also includes her sister, Dorothy (Dave) Northrup, and numerous nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in her heart.
Martha was preceded in death by her brother, John H. McNeese, and her sister, Betty Rose Smith, with whom she now rests in peace. Her love and memories will be cherished and kept alive by those who had the privilege of knowing her.
Her interests spoke volumes about who she was-a woman who found pleasure in life's simple joys. Martha's passion for cooking was evident in the delicious meals she prepared, particularly at Thanksgiving, her favorite holiday, where she hosted memorable family get-togethers. Her days were often filled with the drama of soap operas and the news stories from Fox News, which kept her engaged with the world at large.
An animal lover through and through, Martha's tender care extended to all creatures, great and small. Her beloved cat, Zoe, was a constant source of comfort and companionship, and will undoubtedly miss her warm presence.
Martha's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with threads of love, kindness, and gentle grace. She navigated life's challenges with resilience and always managed to find the silver lining in every cloud. Her spirit, a gentle whisper of positivity and strength, will continue to guide and inspire those who knew her.
In keeping with her wishes, her family will remember her privately.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Niles. www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.
As we bid farewell to Martha Jane Nichols, we celebrate the remarkable woman she was and the incredible life she lived. Her memory will be a treasure in the hearts of her family and friends, and her legacy of love will be a guiding light for generations to come. Rest in peace, dear Martha; your journey here has ended, but your story will go on forever in the lives you touched.