Judy Marie Nichols, 79, of Amarillo, Texas passed away on November 9, 2023.
Service and Viewing will be held at 3:00 P.M., Wednesday, November 15, 2023, in the Boxwell Brothers Ivy Chapel. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors, 2800 Paramount Blvd., Amarillo, Texas.
Judy was born in Madill, Oklahoma on December 25, 1943, to Ira Thomas and Odessa Levine Kirkland.
She attended school in Vega, TX and graduated with an Education degree from West Texas State University in Canyon in 1973. She was a faithful Christian, teaching Sunday school classes and leading women’s prayer groups. Judy was a devoted public-school teacher. She taught in several schools such as Dumas, Karnes City, Levelland, Clayton, NM, Kerrville, River Road, and Amarillo. Judy was named Teacher of the Year by Amarillo ISD in 2004. Her dedication throughout her 38 years in education influenced hundreds of young lives. Even in her declining health, she remained a social butterfly and never lost her sense of humor. She loved watching and rooting for her favorite teams the Dallas Cowboys and San Antonio Spurs and working puzzles. Her greatest pride and joy was spending time with her family, especially her 2 children, 4 grandchildren, and 4 brothers. Although we are heartbroken by her absence, we take comfort knowing that she is whole again and rejoicing in her heavenly home.
She was preceded in death by her parents Ira and Odessa Kirkland.
She is survived by her son Randy (Jo Beth) Nichols of Sundown, her daughter Mona (Chris) Smith of Amarillo, her granddaughters Emilee (Slayden) Watson of Amarillo, Abigail Nichols of Ft. Worth, Lauren Nichols of Charleston, South Carolina, her grandson Matthew (Nicole) Nichols of Princeton, Texas, brothers Richard (Sharon) Kirkland of Amarillo, Lester (Frances) Kirkland of Vega, Perry (Melanie) Kirkland of Vega, and Larry Joe (Jessica) Kirkland of Levelland, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Our prayers and condolences for Judy’s family.
Andy and Roberta La Grone
3215 MC 15
Texarkana, AR 71854
Our condolences to Judy’s family. She was a sweet Christian friend.
Sincerely,
Andy & Roberta La Grone
Always enjoyed visiting with Judy. She had a most beautiful smile & great sense of humor. Good knowing she’s with her Lord & Savior Jesus Christ.
Love to all her family.
Praying for all of you!
My deepest sympathy for your loss. May you be blessed with memories of all the good times!
She was the youngest of our class. She had such a wonderful sense of humor and always a good sport. I love her dearly! Even though it’s been a long time since we’ve visited, I will miss her so very much!
Our deepest sympathy for your loss. May God give you comfort at this time.
Aunt Judy was one of my favorite aunts. She counseled me on many family matters that brought much humor in difficult times. I also have very special memories of her reading to my brother and I when we were young. I will miss her wise words of encouragement.
Many wonderful memories of Aunt Judy, Uncle Dean and Mona coming to Colorado and having family picnics with my young boys John and Mark.
Mrs Nichols was one of my favorite teachers ❤️
She was a lovely lady with a wonderful heart and loved her students dearly! You will be greatly missed 🙏
Fly high beautiful
So sorry to hear about Judy. She was a joy to work with her and be her friend❤️
She was so much fun to be with. I know you will miss her.
Judy Heath
Chelsea, Alabama
I’’m so sorry, I’ve loved hearing all your stories over the years. I loved how fiery and spicy Judy was. I hope you find comfort in the love she had for you, and you had for her. Love you guys.
So sorry, I know you will all miss her. It was always a pleasure to get to visit with her. Love to all the family?
Rest in peace Judy🕊️🕊️