Evelyn (Brinkley) Nichols

Evelyn Ann Brinkley Nichols, 94, passed away peacefully at home on October 15, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Shinewell, Oklahoma, on June 4, 1930, Evelyn was the daughter of Robert C. Brinkley and Lorene Brinkley (Williams). She married her high school sweetheart, James Delbert "J.D. or Deb" Nichols, in 1948, beginning a marriage that would last over 72 years until his passing in 2020. Together, they built a life filled with love, hard work, and devotion to their family.

Evelyn was a homemaker and her warmth, generosity, and nurturing spirit were felt by everyone who entered her home. She took pride in caring for her family and was happiest when surrounded by the people she loved. Whether tending to her beloved flowers, feeding the birds and fish, or cooking up a family meal, Evelyn made sure her home was a sanctuary for all. After retiring and moving home from Wichita, she and J.D. shared a deep love for their land in Redland, Oklahoma, where they enjoyed life surrounded by trees, flowers, cows, and ponds full of catfish.

Affectionately known as "Grandmom" by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Evelyn was devoted to her family, always there with a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck. Her love for her family was unconditional, and her legacy of kindness, strength, and grace will live on through them. 

Evelyn is preceded in death by her husband, James Delbert Nichols; her son, Hal Nichols; and her brothers, Bobby, Joe, and Paul Brinkley. 

She is survived by her daughter, Deborah (Nichols) Hattan; son-in-law, John Hattan; grandchildren Zeph Hattan, Andrea Hattan and Kevin Pfeiffer; great-grandchildren, Aviva, Miles, and Louis; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and lifelong friends.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 18 at 2 p.m. at the White Family Funeral Home Chapel in Idabel, OK

The family will receive visitors from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Thursday, October 17 at the funeral home.

In honor of Evelyn's deep love for flowers, the family welcomes floral arrangements to be sent to the funeral home.

Online condolences can be shared with the family at www.whitefamilyfh.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Evelyn (Brinkley) Nichols, please visit our floral store.