On Wednesday morning, June 24, 2026, the Lord called His faithful servant, Deacon Charlie Edward Nichols, home, welcoming him with the words, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant."

Charlie was born on April 14, 1932, in Bedford, Virginia, to the late Mary Childress and Jack Nichols. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, JoAnn Brown Blake; his infant son, Charlie E. Nichols, Jr.; his sister, Angelina "Lena" Hurt; and his cousin, Maxine Davis.

A devoted Deacon of Shiloh Baptist Church in Bedford, Charlie faithfully served his church family with a willing heart. He truly was the hands and feet of Christ, always ready to lend a helping hand—whether mowing the church grounds, picking up the chicken for a fellowship meal, or assisting wherever needed. He was known for his warm smile, infectious giggle, and servant's heart.

Charlie enjoyed hunting, working around his home and church, and spending time outdoors. Above all, he had a special love for automobiles. He took great pride in each of his vehicles, including his classic 1964 Ford, which was featured in the Bedford Parade, his midnight blue station wagon, and his dependable Ford truck that carried him to the Peaks of Otter without hesitation.

During his younger years, Charlie worked on the railroad in Norfolk, Virginia. He later devoted many years to Rubatex Corporation before retiring from City Ford. In addition, at times he assisted Mr. Frank Miller at Bedford Funeral Home.

Cherishing his memory are his children: Colonel (Retired) Deacon Larry Campbell (Marita) of Durham, North Carolina; Darlene Nichols Herndon of Lynchburg, Virginia; David Nichols (Maria) of Wellington, Florida; Joyce Hall, Sydney Poindexter, Lance Nichols (Sasha), all of Bedford, Virginia; and Lisa Blake of Richmond, Virginia.

He also leaves to cherish his memory his grandchildren: Larry LaMell Campbell (Lyndsay), Tina Campbell Piard (Greg), Andres Langhorne, Latrevious Stone, Janya Alston, Anton Hall, David Nichols, and Ermias "Nip" Nichols; his great-granddaughter, Na'ilah Jazelle; his great grandson, Theodore Hall; his nephews, Wiley Hurt (Laurie), David Hurt (Vickie), and John William Hurt (Debra); his cousin, Cheryl, and her family of Farmville, Virginia; special friends Rev. Phillip Brown, Dorothy Marshall, David Brown, and Robbin Wright; along with a host of other relatives, church family, and dear friends.

Though Charlie's earthly journey has ended, his legacy of faith, service, kindness, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

"Well done, good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your Lord." — Matthew 25:23

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Sasha; Ms. T. and family for their support; Ms. Annette Jackson and her daughter, Mr. Charles King of Shiloh Baptist Church and special friends, Freddy and Cheryl Hayden. We would also like to express our gratitude to everyone for their calls and prayers during this difficult time. May God bless each of us and continue to strengthen us in the days ahead.

Long-time servant of the most high, his presence was his greatest gift. Daddy's life was filled with devotion, a life that didn't require much speaking, but most angels don't. His presence fought unknown battles. God, we thank you for keeping him on this realm of life. He was a fighter like no other, never giving up until his last breath.

~ Poem by: Andres Langhorne