Jeanette Irene Nichols, a devoted mother, grandmother, Christian, and passionate lover of the arts, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2025, at the age of 75, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
Born on September 26, 1950, in Defiance, Ohio, Jeanette grew up in a warm and loving household as the daughter of Golda and Jack, both dedicated teachers who inspired her lifelong belief in the transformative power of learning. Following in their footsteps, Jeanette studied Education at Kent State University, where she attended during the time of the Kent State shooting in 1970, and later graduated. She began her career as a teacher, bringing her enthusiasm and care to young students, before transitioning to a fulfilling role as a clerk with the United States Postal Service until
her retirement.
Jeanette was the epitome of a loving mother, pouring everything she had into raising her daughter Jacquelyn and son David, and always being there whenever they needed her—she was the most caring mom they could have ever asked for. Her greatest joy came from her role as a grandmother to Dazmin, Iyanna, and Daniel, with whom she shared endless affection and created cherished memories.
A woman of deep faith and community spirit, Jeanette was a longtime member of the First United Methodist Church of Cleveland. There, she found immense fulfillment in teaching Sunday school and performing with the church’s bell choir. Music was another passion; she played the flute with joy and was a devoted fan of the Beatles, whose music brought her endless delight.
Jeanette’s love for art enriched her life profoundly. She was an avid admirer of Thomas Kinkade and held a special appreciation for the sculptor Auguste Rodin. In 2015, she fulfilled a dream by visiting Rodin’s garden in Paris, a city she adored for its beauty and romance. She also enjoyed relaxing with episodes of Law & Order, sewing, baking, and spending time with family.
Jeanette is survived by her daughter Jacquelyn, son David, brother William, grandchildren Dazmin, Iyanna, and Daniel, as well as extended family and dear friends who will forever hold her kindness, generosity, and joyful presence in their hearts.
In the path of righteousness is life, and in its pathway, there is no death. -Proverbs 12:28
All you need is love, love. Love is all you need. -John Lennon
In lieu of flowers or a formal service, the family kindly requests that memories of Jeanette be shared among loved ones and, if desired, donations made in her honor to the Alzheimer’s
Association to support research into this devastating disease