John Nichols
Rains County Leader
July 19, 1929
John Nichols Passes Away
John Nichols, aged shoe cobbler and a familiar figure upon the streets of Greenville for over a quarter of a century, known to his patrons simply as “Old John” even in death typified his retiring and almost reclusive nature which was one of his outstanding characteristics through life.
The little sandy headed German, for he came to this country from the Fatherland when only 6 years of age, during his long period of residence in this city, won many friends who frequently dropped into the shop in which he worked to hear him solemnly propound little bits of wisdom that showed he was a deep student of human nature as if often the man who lives more or less to himself.
He was a real craftsman and like all such mechanics took genuine pride in his work. For many years he had been employed by J. Tolbert of this city.
John Nichols died at 3:30 Sunday morning following an illness of some duration brought on by advancing age. Funeral services will be held at 6 o’clock this afternoon by Rev. Leo Johnston pastor of the Central Christian church. Burial will follow in Forest Park Cemetery.
Shortly before dying the aged man pinned a note to his old friend, J. Tolbert, written in his native language, instructing him as to the disposal of his remains and his meager possessions. Effects have been made by newspapers and radio during the past few days to locate relatives without success. He is believed, however, to be survived by two daughters somewhere in St. Louis. – Greenville Banner.
Mr. Nichols lived in Emory many years before going to Greenville and will be remembered by many of our older citizens.
Submitted by Elaine Nall Bay
| 
