Norma J. Nichols, 85, of Rockford, Ohio passed away peacefully in her sleep on February 25, 2025.  She was born November 6, 1939 in Jackson, Kentucky and was the daughter of the late Les and Jettia (Smith) Carpenter.

On January 19, 1957 Norma married John W. Nichols, who preceded her in death on February 9, 2007.

Norma always put her Lord first.  She was a faithful servant and read her Bible every morning. She prayed daily for her family, friends, and neighbors.  Norma also devoted her life to her seven children, and considered them her joy and reason for living.  She was known to be hard working, independent, and generally a lovely person whom her family adored.  

Surviving are two sons, John (Patty) Nichols of Willshire, and Les (Cheryl) Nichols of Rockford; three daughters, Lillian (Bob) Denney of Rockford, Rita (John) Huey of Mendon, and Jeanie (Dale) Smith of Rockford; one brother, Kenny Carpenter of Jackson, Kentucky; one sister, Janice (Everett) Kelly of Jackson, Kentucky; fifteen grandchildren; twenty three great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.  Norma was also expecting the birth of her first great great grandson later this year.

In addition to her parents and husband, Norma was preceded in death by her son, Kenny Nichols; daughter, Lora Martin; two brothers, Floyd and J. B. Carpenter; and her sister, Lillian Larmore.

The family will receive friends from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm Saturday, March 15, 2025 at Ketcham Ripley Funeral Home, 111 West First Street, Rockford, Ohio  45882.

A private graveside service will be held at a later time.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN  38105.

Online condolences may be shared at www.ketchamripley.com.

Services have been entrusted to Ketcham Ripley Funeral Home, 111 West First Street, Rockford, Ohio  45882.