Johnnie Laurine Nichols

Johnnie Laurine Nichols of Chireno, beloved wife, mother, and "Big Mom," passed away on February 21, 2025, in Lufkin, TX.  

Laurine was born on October 21, 1928, in Chireno, TX, in Nacogdoches County, the only daughter of Laurie Shannon Gray and Lena Bell Martin Gray.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 60 years, Joe Reece Nichols; her son, John Michael “Mike” Nichols; her daughter, Lori Lynn Nichols Mudd; and her brothers, Shannon Gray, Arthur B. Gray, and Estill Gray.

Laurine graduated from Chireno High School as valedictorian before attending Stephen F. Austin State University, where she earned her degree in 1948. She pursued further studies at the University of Houston. Her passion for education led her to a long and fulfilling teaching career, beginning at Vidor Independent School District. She later taught for many years in the Spring Independent School District before retiring from Broaddus Independent School District. Even after retirement, her love for teaching continued at San Augustine Independent School District.

A devoted historian and genealogist, Laurine cherished family heritage and antiques. She was an active member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, serving as an officer in the Ezekiel Cullen Chapter in San Augustine. In her later years, she played a key role in securing the designation of the Chireno Lower Cemetery as a Texas Historic Cemetery and served on its board. Beyond her passion for history, Laurine was known for her love of cooking, always ensuring her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were well-fed. No one ever left her home hungry or without a snack. Afternoon coffee and pie were a cherished tradition. She even authored and illustrated her own cookbook, Laurine’s Culinary Favorites. She enjoyed gardening, sewing, reading, drawing, playing dominoes, and Skip-Bo—often accusing Big Dad of cheating when she lost.

Laurine is survived by her five grandchildren: Donna Michele Ruppert and husband Jeffery of Chireno, Cameron Nichols of Chireno, Laura Cowan and husband Jim of Nacogdoches, Natalie Green of Houston, and Matthew Russell of San Augustine. She also leaves behind nine great-grandchildren: Cade Westbrook and wife Breauna of Chireno, Caitlyn Westbrook of Granbury, Claire Westbrook of Nacogdoches, Colton Ruppert of Chireno, Hayden Nichols of Chireno, Camden Nichols of Chireno, Peyton Penner of Peoria, AZ, Jackson Russell of Frisco, Lori Lou Green of Houston and Katie Cowan of Austin.  Two special nieces, Joyce Shoubrouek and Sharon Busbee, as well as many other cherished family members and friends, also mourn her passing.

Pallbearers will be Cade Westbrook, Hayden Nichols, Colton Ruppert, Camden Nichols, Shannon Brazeal, and Johnathan Weatherly. Honorary pallbearers include Cameron Nichols, Matthew Russell, Mark Gray, Jeff Gray, Mark Busbee, Shane Gray and Renaldo Davis. 

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM on February 27 at Chireno Methodist Church, with burial to follow at the Chireno Lower Cemetery. The family will receive friends at 1:00 PM at the church prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Chireno Lower Cemetery Fund or the Chireno Methodist Church.

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