James Levi Nichols, 83, of McPherson, Kansas, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2026.

James was born on December 19, 1942, in McPherson County, Kansas, to Roy A. Nichols and Dorothy (Henne) Nichols. He attended school in Roxbury, KS., and graduated from Roxbury High School in 1961. Raised in central Kansas, James developed a strong work ethic and devotion to family that remained with him throughout his life. James married Ruby L. Wiedner on October 9, 1971, in Sidney, Nebraska. Together they built a life centered on family, hard work, and enduring love. James proudly served his country in the United States Army, joining on February 4, 1964. He was honorably discharged on January 25, 1967. During his service, he earned the National Defense Service Medal and achieved Rifle Expert qualification. For most of his adult life, James drove an over-the-road truck, hauling freight across the country for 45 years. He took pride in his work and enjoyed the freedom of the open road. Through dedication and perseverance, he provided for his family while building countless stories and friendships along the way. James will be remembered for his kindness, strength, sense of humor, and unwavering dedication to those he loved. He cherished time spent with family and took great pride in watching his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren grow and flourish.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy A. Nichols and Dorothy (Henne) Nichols; his brother, Larry Nichols; granddaughter, Chloe’ Nichols; brother-in-law, Doug Johnson; and son-in-law, Patrick “Pat” Perez.

James is survived by his wife, Ruby Nichols; daughters, Janet Perez, Stephanie Sulls, Tamera Wilhelm, and Teresa Nichols; grandchildren, Logan Puchosic (Kaylin), Samantha Ensz (Cory), Brittany Sulls, Brigitte Moore (Travon), Nicholle Tyson (Tre), Tanner Sulls, Zoie Nichols (Stacey) and Kenidy Nichols; great-grandchildren, Kayleigh, Kallan, Briella, Levi, Benson, Layne, Brystol and Thomas; James’ brother, Robert A. Nichols (Willene); sisters, Mary Johnson, Rose McKune (Kevin), and Rhonda Woods (Curt Counts).

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, September 11, 2026, at Valley View Cemetery in Roxbury, Kansas.

James leaves behind a legacy of faith, hard work, service, and love. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me lie down in green pastures. He Leadeth me beside still waters. He restoreth my soul; He leadeth me in the paths of Righteousness for His name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: For thou art with me. Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou anointest my head with oil, my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.” Psalm 23: 2-6