Dixie Olive Nichols

Dixie Olive Nichols, 85, of Princeton, IL, passed away on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at Greenfield Retirement Home in Princeton, surrounded by her loved ones.

Dixie was born on November 29, 1940 in Ironwood, Michigan, the daughter of William H. and Virgie (Conley) Wood.

At the age of 15 while working at a local movie theater, Dixie met the love of her life and never looked back. She married Noel “Denver” Nichols on September 1, 1957 in Newton, IL. Dixie and Denver shared a wonderful 68 years together before his passing on May 7, 2025.

Dixie lived life to the fullest with her husband by her side. They enjoyed golfing and socializing at the former Bureau Valley Country Club. Dixie loved spending time with her girlfriends; playing bridge, eating at one of their favorite spots (The Park Tavern), or taking vacations to the Caribbean. They spent summers fishing at their family cabin in Ontario Canada, where her grandsons learned to drive a boat. She treasured shopping trips with her granddaughters and summers spent by the pond.

She was the life of every party. Dressed to the nines, Dixie loved to entertain, was a phenomenal cook, and if there was a dance floor…Denver and Dixie were on it. She had impeccable taste, creating a home that was somehow fancy and welcoming all at once.

Denver and Dixie built a life people dream of. She was generous, always knowing just when you needed a little extra help. She left an impression everywhere she went. Witty and honest, she built friendships with an unmatched devotion.

Most of all, Dixie cherished her family.

She is survived by her four children, Pat (Annie) Nichols of Wyanet, Bill (Kassi Parker) Nichols of Long Beach, WA, Polly (Mike) Ulm of Colorado Springs, CO, and Shawn (Maura) Nichols of Princeton; eight grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Dixie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Denver; and her brother, Sam (Bill) Wood.

As one of her dear friends said, “she has earned her rest.” Per Dixie’s wishes, there will be no services. Cremation rites have been accorded.

Memorials may be directed to Shriners Children’s Hospital or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.