GAYLE NICHOLSON

died peacefully on Sunday, January 28, 2024, in Little Rock, Ark., where she was a lifelong resident. Gayle was quiet, kind, and generous, and thrived in the beauty of nature. She was born Deborah Gayle Newton to Clarence Brantley and Marguerite Newton on June 6, 1954. She was a proud product of Little Rock Public schools, attending Jefferson Elementary and Hall High School. Gayle’s childhood was filled with bike rides with neighborhood friends, piano lessons, and watching her older brother, CB, play baseball.

Gayle completed her journalism degree at the University of Arkansas Little Rock and truly lived life to the fullest. She raised two sons, attended church at St. Paul United Methodist Church, and traveled the world with her husband. She loved photography, had a knack for gardening, and was a devoted caretaker to numerous dogs and cats throughout the years. She had a keen ear for music, playing piano and handbells in the church choir. She believed Lake Ouachita was the most beautiful place on earth and was always happy to spend a day there in the summertime. She enjoyed watching sports, especially baseball. She never missed a single one of her grandson’s games at Junior Deputy. Most of all, Gayle loved spending time with her family and her many friends.

She is survived by her husband, Tyler Calhoun Nicholson; her son, Ben Vogelgesang (Kelley); her grandchildren, Gus and Anna; and her nephew, Bryan Newton (Stephanie). She was predeceased by her parents; her son, Barry Vogelgesang; and brother, CB Newton (Elizabeth).

Gayle’s family would like to offer their most sincere gratitude to the staff at Baptist Health and Hospice Home Care for the care she received.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, February 1, at 11 a.m., at St. Paul United Methodist Church in Little Rock. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Humane Society of Pulaski County. For full obituary, please visit RuebelFuneralHome.com.