William "Bill" Thomas Nichols

William “Bill” Thomas Nichols, 85, of Little Rock, Arkansas, passed away on September 18, 2025. He was born on July 29, 1940, in Waynesburg, Pennsylvania.

A proud graduate of the University of Arkansas, Bill was a devoted Razorback fan throughout his life. After graduation he began his career as an educator at Butterfield Elementary in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

In 1958, Bill enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving six years with his final active- duty station at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Following his service with the Marines, he joined the Army National Guard, where he rose to the rank of Sergeant Major. He dedicated much of his career to the marksmanship training unit at Camp Robinson in North Little Rock and to teaching officer training at the Professional Education Center at Camp Robinson. Bill retired from active military service on his 60th birthday, July 29, 2000, after a lifetime of honorable service.

Faith was a cornerstone of Bill’s life. He was an active member of Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church, where he served through Stephen Ministry and the Helping Hands Ministry. He continued his service to these ministries even through his declining health. Beyond his faith and military service, Bill loved the outdoors and was a longtime member of Staves Hunting Club near Rison, Arkansas, where he especially enjoyed deer hunting and fellowship with other members.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Mary Lou Parrish. He is survived by his children: Dennis (Laura) Nichols, Nathan Nichols, and Joey (Melissa) Nichols. He was the proud grandfather of Shannon, Robert, Katrina, Anna Kate, Taylor, and Tiffany, and the beloved great- grandfather of seven great-grandchildren.

Bill will be remembered for his faith, service, love of family, and devotion to community.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, September 23, at 10:00 a.m. at Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church in Little Rock, Arkansas where he will receive full Military Honors. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Stephen Ministry at Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church.