Douglas Odell Nichols' Obituary
Douglas Odell Nichols, 83, of Decatur, Illinois, passed away December 13, 2023.
He was a devoted husband, father, dentist, Viet Nam War Veteran, and avid golfer. Some may say he became a dentist to support his golfing habit. He always supported his Fighting Illini, Chicago Bears and St. Louis Cardinals. Never a fair weather fan.
A member of the infamous “Bandits” on the golf course. Known as “Tooth” to his friends. Generous to a fault and equally as loyal.
If you were fortunate, or unfortunate enough, to play golf within a two mile radius of hole 2 at the Decatur Country Club, you were almost guaranteed to hear a melody of profanity followed by a splash and dull thud as the head of his six iron gets buried into the ground while the pond claims another one of his Titleists.
The Nichols family wishes to thank April Huffacker, Jaden Cuttler, Bev Bahlman, Susan Pannbacker, Abby Harvey for their care. We would also like to thank Ronda Burcham for welcoming Dad to his new neighborhood.
Doug is survived by sons Steve Nichols (Suzie) and John Nichols, daughter Laura Rayhill (David), grandchildren Nick, Ryan and Alexis Rayhill, Brandi Myers, Cheyenne Childers, and great grandson Alden Myers. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Ginny, parents Nick and Margaret Nichols, and brother Steve.
He is now at peace and reunited with the love of his life Ginny on the 19th hole.
Graceland Fairlawn Funeral Home is providing cremation services for Doug. A graveside service will be held at 11am on Friday, December 22, in Fairlawn Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the Macon County Animal Care and Control or Alzheimer's Association. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.gracelandfairlawn.com .
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