Keller Clifford Nichols

1928 - 2014

Keller Clifford Nichols passed away at home on March 2, 2014, surrounded by his family.

He was born in Luray, Virginia on June 14, 1928. He was the son of Nelson M. Nichols and Edna Fox Nichols.

He graduated from Stephens City High School in 1947. He was a member and trustee of Bethel Lutheran Church. He was a life member of Moose Lodge 1283, where he served one term as Governor. He was a member of the Virginia Sheriff's Association, Judges Athletic Association, Kiwanis, and Ruritan.

Keller worked at B&M Chevrolet and Stutzman Chevrolet for 19 years before being elected as a Democrat to serve as Winchester City Sheriff. He served for 20 years and retired from this position in 2001.

Keller is survived by his wife of 64 years, Betty Bailey Nichols; two sons, Douglas A. Nichols and wife Barbara of Winchester, and Gary S. Nichols and wife Dale of Middletown; two grandsons, Jeremy D. Nichols and wife Cassey of Winchester, and Clint A. Nichols of Richmond; two step-granddaughters, Abigail Novario of Virginia Beach, and Laura Glinka of Charlotte, North Carolina; two great granddaughters, Lucy Nichols and Avery Nichols of Winchester; and two step-great grandchildren, Hattie Novario and Nikolai Novario of Virginia Beach. He is survived by one brother, Harold Nichols of Middletown, and one sister, Ruby Ridings of Stephens City; one half-sister, Norma Jean Slonaker, and one half-brother, Isaac Duncan. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Keller enjoyed his home woodworking shop where he made many treasured items for his family. He also enjoyed playing golf, collecting model trains, and growing beautiful roses. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2014, at 10:00 a.m., at Bethel Lutheran Church, 2077 North Frederick Pike. The service will be officiated by Rev. Dr. David Young, Pastor, Bethel Lutheran Church, and the Rev. Dr. Conrad Christianson, Pastor Emeritus, Bethel Lutheran Church. The family will receive friends at Jones Funeral Home, from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, March 7, 2014.

Pallbearers will be David Nichols, Larry Nichols, John Solenberger, Jr., Jeremy Solenberger, Lenny Millholland, James Brumback, Richard Adams, Jack McAllister, and Lee Rathman.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Bethel Lutheran Church Building Fund, c/o Bethel Lutheran Church, 2077 North Frederick Pike, Winchester, VA 22603, or SPCA, 115 Featherbed Lane, Winchester, VA 22601.

Online condolences may be left at www.jonesfuneralhomes.com

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