Thomas P. Nichols

CHARLTON: Thomas P. Nichols, 77, of Charlton, passed away on November 19, at UMASS Memorial Medical Center after a period of illness. Tom was surrounded by the love of his family during his final moments. Tom leaves behind his beloved wife of 54 years, Susan (Hill) Nichols; two sons, Michael T. Nichols and his wife Sarah of Hubbardston and John T. Nichols of Spencer; two daughters, Sandra J. Woods and her husband Dave of Charlton and Bonni J. Falcone of Charlton; and eleven cherished grandchildren; Brenna, Kaitlyn, Jamie, Nicholas, Makenzie, Mia, Nina, Ella, Ethan, Eli, and Ean. He was predeceased by his brother, Daniel P. Nichols of Worcester.

Born in Worcester, Tom was the son of Walter and Helen (Savage) Nichols and had deep roots in the Charlton area where he spent most of his life. He graduated from St. Peter’s High School in Worcester in 1965 and earned an Associate's Degree in Engineering from Worcester Jr. College.

After a long and fulfilling career, Tom retired from Neles-Jamesbury Corp, where he dedicated 43 years of service. 

Faith played a central role in Tom’s life as he was an active member of St. Joseph's Church, where he was a youth CCD instructor, a Pre-Cana couple to couple pre-marriage counselor with his wife Sue, and long time church usher.

Tom's commitment to community was evident in his involvement with youth sports, where he volunteered thousands of hours to Charlton Youth Basketball as a coach, referee and board member, supporting and encouraging young athletes. He was also a board certified high school basketball official.

A railroad enthusiast, Tom enjoyed spending time watching trains with his sons and was a talented photographer. Tom enjoyed fishing and was a lover of his animals. He had a quick wit and his sense of humor always lit up a room. 

His legacy of love for family and community will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

A funeral Mass to celebrate Tom’s life will take place on Monday, November 25, 10:00AM, St. Joseph’s Church, located on H. Putnam Road Ext. in Charlton, with burial to follow at Westridge Cemetery, Charlton.

Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 PM on Sunday, November 24, at the Belanger-Bullard Funeral Home, 51 Marcy St., Southbridge.

In honor of Tom's memory, an online guestbook and a video tribute are available at www.BelangerFuneralHome.com.