EDWARD R. NICHOLAS

(also known as Rufus Edward Nichols), 93, of North Little Rock, Ark., passed away April 27, 2021. He was born January 4, 1928 in Belfast, Ark., to the late Charles C. and Hattie M. (Williams) Dukes Nichols. His parents moved the family to Little Rock in 1930. Ed grew up going to school and working odd jobs. He was drafted by the U. S. Army during WWII, completing a tour of duty in occupied Japan, and returned home in 1947. He met and married Ruth E. (Streeter) Nicholas and began raising a family. He went to work for the Missouri Pacific, later the Union Pacific Railroad, and held several positions in the Transportation/ Sales Department during a 38 year career before retiring in 1985. In retirement, Ed enjoyed his hobby farm, raising miniature and POA horses, showing chickens and pigeons, along with being active in several clubs.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 71 years, Ruth Nicholas; infant sister, Alma Jean Nichols; and seven half-brothers and three half-sisters. He is survived by his children, Larry Nicholas (Mary) of Kingsland, Sharon Smith of North Little Rock, and Steven Nicholas (Jan) of Conway; and granddaughter, Kali Kimball of Shawnee, Kan.

Services will be held at 12 noon, Wednesday, May 5, 2021, at the Pavilion in Rest Hills Memorial Park, 7724 Landers Road in North Little Rock. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice. www.griffinleggettresthills.com