Leona Mae (Hudson) Nichols

Leona was born on May 12, 1945, to Robert and Lottie Hudson. On November 2, 1962, she married Ken Nichols, and together they raised three children: Nathan, Laura, and Jason.

She was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served for many years in the St. Louis Missouri Temple. Every Wednesday, she awoke at 4:00 a.m. to make the trip to the temple and spend the day serving others. Even after returning home, she lovingly cared for her grandchildren, Tabitha and Willie, who spent every Wednesday night with her.

Family was at the center of her life. She was blessed with six grandchildren—Tabitha, Willie, Kirk, Parker, Adalee, and Mallory. Kirk and Parker grew up just two houses away and could often be found walking over to visit their grandma. Although Adalee and Mallory were still young when she passed away, she loved them dearly.

She also had the joy of meeting her first great-grandchild, Sam. He arrived just in time for her to hold him before she passed away, and meeting him brought her tremendous happiness.

She faced pulmonary fibrosis with remarkable courage and fought valiantly until the end. She will be remembered as a sweet, caring woman who was always serving those around her—whether preparing Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, caring for her grandchildren, serving in the temple, or picking up KFC chicken for the family’s annual Fourth of July gathering at Wyman Park.

Her life was defined by faith, family, service, and love, and her influence continues to be felt by all who knew her.