Jamesetta “Etta” Nickerson, 74, of Cleveland, Ohio peacefully passed away on April 25, 2024. Etta was born to James Brown and Bernice Malunda, on November 12, 1949, in Memphis, Tennessee.

In the early 60’s Etta moved to Cleveland OH, where she was raised by her grandmother, Cora. She attended John Hay High School and inspired by her Aunt Emma, Etta would later attend cosmetology school and become a licensed cosmetologist.

In 1966, Etta married the late Maynard Evans, and to this union were born two children, Pamela and Timothy. Etta was a devoted wife and mother. In addition to caring for her children, she played an integral and supportive part in raising her sister Karen.

On June 24, 1995, she married Harvey Nickerson, the love of her life. From this union she developed and nurtured relationships with her stepchildren, Justin, Harvey Jr., Adrian, Eric, Charlotte, Veronica, and Cheryl.

Etta, who accepted Jesus Christ as her savior early in life, had many hobbies and interests. She enjoyed reading romance novels, and crocheting gifts such as blankets, hats, and scarves for loved ones. She was a phenomenal cook and adored making delicious meals for family and friends. She often received requests for her infamous baked goods including sweet potato pies and peach cobblers.

As an avid Cleveland Browns and Cavaliers fan, Etta was the ultimate armchair coach, wearing her fan gear, preparing/eating snacks, and shouting plays at the television. Those close to her knew “call her after, not during the game”.

She was an exceptional bargain shopper. This skill would eventually lead her to becoming an Avon Sales Representative for 30+ years where she was recognized several times as a top salesperson. Etta believed in supporting her community. She served over 10 years as the Treasurer on the Erie Shore Condo Association Board, as well as other roles. Her neighbors viewed her as the cornerstone of the board due to her hard work and commitment to making their condominium community a safe, clean, and desirable place to live.

Retired from Merit Brass after 15 years of service, Etta previously worked as a bookkeeper, cosmetologist, and bartender for several popular bars in the Cleveland area. During her years as a cosmetologist, she could often be found in her kitchen applying chemical treatments and painstakingly rolling hair on rods creating heads full of Jeri-Curls. Up to her death, as a part of her loving spirit, she regularly visited a nursing home to retouch a dear friend’s Jeri-Curl.

During Etta’s years as an experienced mixologist and bartender she befriended and would later marry Harvey Nickerson. Harvey formed the Magic Touch Band, featuring Harvey and Ms. Etta, vocalist. They traveled together and made beautiful music.

Etta began singing at an early age in church and would regularly sing at private events. As a vocalist of the Magic Touch Band, Etta would hone her talent and share her gift at venues all over northeast Ohio. Her bluesy and rhythmic voice delighted crowds and created a fan base that followed Etta and the Magic Touch Band for years to come. After Harvey’s death Etta continued to entertain and accept requests to perform at funerals, weddings, special events and nursing homes.

Etta often traveled to Virginia, with her son by side to spend quality time with her daughter and son-in-law. Her greatest joy was cheering on her children’s accomplishments. She celebrated their every milestone big and small, because if it mattered to them, it mattered to her.

Etta will be deeply missed by her beloved children, Pamela (Dennis) Evans-Cooper and Timothy Evans; loving and supportive sister, Karen Powell; stepchildren, Justin (Sharaya) Oatman, Harvey Hall, Jr (Suzanne), Adrian (Davastine) Hall, Eric Nolan Grant, Charlotte O’Neal, Veronica (Gary) Thompson, Cheryl Beatrice (Parks) Griffin; Sister-in-law, Regina (Ricky) Hall-Spicer, and brother-in-law, Ronald (Carolyn) Borders.

Her legacy will be embraced by her grandchildren Treavon, Nijal, Timia, Joshua; nephew Robert (Tammie) Kelly, niece Felisha (Reginald) McDowell; great nieces, Phylicia Rustin and Jordynn Kelly, great nephew Reginald McDowell, great great niece, Patience Huff; bonus daughters, Moniqua Spencer and Monica (Steve) Koczan.

She is also mourned by her treasured cousins Eddie (Rose) Malunda, Jr, Ardeania “Nell” (Bonzale) Clark, Satira Kitchen and a host of family and dear friends who were impacted by her kind heart and will cherish her memory.

Etta was predeceased by her husband, Harvey Nickerson; mother, Bernice Malunda; father, James Brown; grandparents, Cora and Jessie Malunda; sister-in-law, Mary Ann Wells; uncles, Eddie Sr, and Jessie Malunda Jr.

As we come together to remember Etta, let us fondly remember her kindness, warmth, and unwavering love.

The family would like to sincerely thank everyone for their phone calls, text messages, compassionate words, tight hugs, support, and love during this challenging time.