Roll Call Tribute

Elzie Allen Nichols 

February 26, 1928 - November 26, 2023 

Graveside services for Elzie Allen Nichols will be held Saturday, December 2, 2023. Burial will be in Forest Lawn Memorial Park under the direction of Hixson Brothers, Alexandria, LA.

Mr. Allen Nichols, a distinguished United States Army veteran and beloved member of our community, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2023, at the age of 95. Born on February 26, 1928, Mr. Nichols lived a life dedicated to service and education.

Mr. Nichols proudly served in the United States Army during World War II. He was in uniform when Japan surrendered in August 1945. Recognizing his potential, the Army assigned him to a special wartime program at Texas A&M University, where he further honed his skills and knowledge. During his service in the Army, Mr. Nichols was transferred to the Alaskan Territory where he continued his service to his beloved America.

In his pursuit of knowledge, Mr. Nichols utilized the G.I. Bill to attend Louisiana College, earning a Bachelor's Degree in Education, and soon attended LSU, earning his Master's Degree in 1956. Equipped with his academic achievements, he embarked on a fulfilling career in education, beginning as a history teacher at Bolton High School. He then became assistant principal and principal of Alexandria Jr High. His passion for teaching and leadership ultimately led him to serve as the Superintendent of Schools for Rapides Parish for an impressive tenure of 27 years.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Elzie Allen Nichols was a devoted husband to his wife, Mary Ann Wilson Nichols. Their loving partnership was a source of strength and support throughout their 73 years of marriage.

Mr. Nichols was a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Alexandria, and taught a men's bible study for 14 years, and also served as the Troop 12 scoutmaster for three years. His favorite hobby was gardening and bass fishing with his son, Darrell.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John B. and Alice May Allen Nichols; brothers, John B. Nichols, Jr. and Billy Joy Nichols; and sister, Helen Mills Richard.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Mary Ann Nichols; sons, Mark Allen Nichols and wife, Nancy Blackwell Nichols, David Darrell Nichols and wife, Cheryl Haire Nichols; daughters, Mimi N. Close and husband, Dr. Ben B. Close, Nancy Lynn Berry and husband Dr. Brent Berry; sister, Betty Jo McLemore; ten grandchildren, Katie Sillivan (Brandon), Andrew Nichols, Jacob Nichols, Tori Jones (Josh), Kyle Close (Lydia), Jackson Close (Mary Madison), Trixie Zhang (Jing), Josh Nichols (Ashton), Brittany Bigby (Hayden), Nick Berry and five great grandchildren, Tyson, Evelyn, and Nolan Sillivan, Mills Jones, and Oliver Bigby; and a host of other family members and friends.

As we mourn the loss of this remarkable individual, we also celebrate the legacy he leaves behind. Mr. Nichols' unwavering commitment to service, education, and community has touched countless lives and will continue to inspire generations to come.

Elzie Allen Nichols will forever be remembered as a true hero, scholar, and leader. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts and minds of all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.