The family of Betty Nichols (91) announces with great sorrow her peaceful passing on November 16, 2024, at Windcrest Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Abilene, Texas. Born in Eastland, Texas, Betty entered the world on February 6, 1933, to her loving parents Joe and Sarah (Patterson) Hilburn, where she spent her formative years. Later, she graduated from Odessa High School before meeting the love of her life, Thomas Douglas “T.D” Nichols, with whom she shared many cherished years of marriage since their union on March 3, 1951.
Betty was a dedicated member of The Order of The Eastern Star Eastland Chapter #280 and Gunsight Baptist Church, where she actively participated in various church functions. She volunteered her time at Eastland Memorial Hospital Gift Shop and engaged in multiple quilting and crafting clubs, holding various leadership roles due to her natural organizational skills and vibrant personality.
With a lively spirit and a knack for storytelling, Betty charmed those around her with her humor and wit, always ready to share a joke or a sarcastic comment that kept her friends and family laughing. According to her children, Betty’s cooking was less than desirable, until they were older and had their own families. Betty was a devoted mother to her children.
Survivors include her daughter, Sherry Beggs-Hayes and son, Doug Nichols and wife, Karen, and cherished daughter-in-law, Sherry Nichols. She delighted in being a part of her grandchildren’s lives, Jason Beggs and wife, Janlyn, Chris Nichols, Tiffany Nichols, Shane Nichols, Justin Nichols and wife, Nancy Garcia and 10 great-grandchildren, offering support and love in all their endeavors. Betty was preceded in death by: Parents, Joe and Sarah Hilburn, husband, Thomas Douglas “T.D.” Nichols and her son, Tom Nichols.
Please join us in celebrating the life of Betty Nichols during Graveside Services at Eastland City Cemetery at 11:00am, Saturday, November 23, 2024 with Randy Beggs officiating where Betty’s legacy will be honored.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Betty’s memory to be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org or to Hendrick Hospice, 1651 Pine St., Abilene, Texas 79601, continuing her dedication to helping others.
Betty’s memory will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her, as her infectious laughter, compassionate nature, and unwavering spirit live on in the stories shared by those touched by her presence. Her legacy of love and laughter will continue to inspire generations to come. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the joy she brought to so many.
The family would like to extend their thanks and appreciation to the staff at Windcrest Health and Rehabilitation Center and to the staff of Hendrick Hospice for their dedication and excellent care of Betty during her time at Windcrest.
Services are under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home-Eastland. To sign the online registry, go to www.edwardsfh.com.
