Walter Gary Nichols

Walter Gary Nichols, age 76, of Northport, Alabama, passed away on September 27, 2025.

In 1967, Gary moved to Tuscaloosa from Phenix City, Alabama, to attend the University of Alabama, and he quickly made the community his home. A dedicated industry leader with over 52 years of experience, Gary embodied the spirit of "working your way up the corporate ladder." He started as a summer laborer at McAbee Construction during college and rose through the ranks to become President and COO, a role he held until 2021 before being named President Emeritus. Throughout his distinguished career, he served on numerous boards, including Junior Achievement, the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama, Go Build Alabama, the University of Alabama College of Engineering Leadership Board, Parks and Recreation Authority, Regions Bank Advisory Board, Hospice of West Alabama and several local education, healthcare, and economic development organizations.

Gary devoted himself tirelessly to workforce development as Chairman of West Alabama Works and Region Three Workforce Development Council, passionately advocating for trade skills and career education for students. His leadership and service earned him the Bronze Leadership Award in 2018, recognition as a Charles H. Land Member of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama, and his designation as a Community Pillar by The Community Foundation of West Alabama in 2017.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Sara Nichols, his brother, Chris Nichols and his beloved wife, Sherry Nichols.

He is survived by his sister, Beth Glen of Smiths Station, AL, and his loving children: son Scott Nichols (Joy) of Tuscaloosa, AL and daughters Shannon Nichols House (Shane Robertson) of Northport, AL and Christi Nichols of Wedowee, AL. He was a proud grandfather to Nicholas Lemley of Tuscaloosa, Garrett Nichols (Taylor) of Nashville, TN, Peyton Bearden (Parker) of Northport, Austin Nichols of Scottsdale, AZ, Colin Nichols of Scottsdale, AZ, Ann Cade Eddings of Tuscaloosa, Baylee Bresnahan (Trent) of Northport, and Cassie House of Chattanooga, TN. He was also a new great-grandfather to Pace Keller Bearden of Northport and Lachlan McCrae Nichols of Nashville, TN.

A visitation will be held at Tuscaloosa Memorial on Friday, October 3 at 12:30 p.m., with a funeral service at 2 p.m., followed by a private burial.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Hospice of West Alabama.