Russ Nichols Obituary (1932 - 2018)

Russ Nichols age 86 of Dahlonega GA went home to be with the LORD surrounded by his loved ones, on November 12th, 2018. Russ started out life with a responsible work ethic. At the early age of 10 he committed to a evening newspaper route. His Christian faith led him to Miami Central Baptist Church where in 1946, as young teenagers, he and his future wife Betty Rae Percefull met. They were married 7 years later in that same church. He attended Coral Gables High School where he participated in Football and Track. He held the state shot-put record for many years. Russ was voted "Sweetheart of the School" by the girls club. He received a football scholarship but "Uncle Sam" called him to serve his country. With true faith in, and love for America he proudly served in the United States Air Force. Russ enjoyed calf roping in small Rodeos. He also had a great love for animals. He wanted to be a Veterinarian but he was destined to be in sales. Russ and Betty's first child Candy arrived in 1957, followed by Cyndi in 1962. Although most of his working years were in sales, Russ and Betty opened a restaurant and small strip center in Miami in 1967. They ran a restaurant that they named Burger House. After they sold that business he began working with Eskimo Pie. Russ retired from Eskimo Pie after 35 years but he still maintained other business relationships. Betty Rae was the owner/operator of Dahlonega Day Care while Russ was employed by Eskimo Pie. Russ loved interacting with the children of the Day Care. He was known as "Santa" and "Mr. Pickles". Many of the children that Russ enjoyed "cutting up" with now bring their children to that same day care they attended years ago and stop by to say hi to "Mr. Pickles". Russ had a contagious and sweet smile, and brought joy to everyone he came in contact with. He has been described by many as "Larger than life". He loved to serve family and friends at their home with his award winning chili during Gold Rush. He loved visitors stopping by the house any time and was always telling them "Get a drink out of the fridge on the porch" Russ was also a survivor of Thyroid and Prostate Cancer. He had power and strength, yet was a gentle man who loved his family and friends. He was active in the church they attended (Berea Baptist Church) as a Deacon and Treasurer, until he was no longer able after suffering his first stroke in August of 2017. Russ fought courageously for 15 months, even after suffering 2 more strokes. He astonished the medical community with his strength and determination to overcome the effects of the stroke. He rarely complained of anything during this time. Russ was a committed and faithful servant of the LORD, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, and uncle, and a generous member of his community. Russ is survived by his wife of 65 years Betty Rae, Daughters Candy Hammond, Cyndi Durham (Rick), Grandchildren, Jason Hammond (Samantha), Kelli Hawkins (Tim), Spencer Durham (Birdie), Delaney Durham, Jason Davis (Kristi), Great Grandchildren, Ava and Asher Hammond, Maddie and Annah Hawkins, Samuel Davis, several Nieces and Nephews, and Great Nieces and Nephews. We love and miss you Russ, Dad, Buddy, Uncle Russ, and Mr. Nichols. The legacy of your love and kindness to all of us is beautiful and will live on until we see you again. In lieu of flowers please donate to Berea Baptist Church P.O. Box 1170 Dahlonega GA 30533 or TLC Humane Society 1735 Red Oaks Flats Road Dahlonega GA 30533. Visitation will be held on Tuesday November 20th, 2018 from 3pm-5pm with the memorial service to follow at 5pm in the chapel of Dahlonega Funeral Home, 20 Gibson Road, Dahlonega GA 30533. 706-864-3683 A Division of McDonald Family Funeral Homes To leave an online condolence or memory please visit www.dahlonegafuneralhome.com