Lou P. Nickell was born March 5, 1924 on Galveston Island. She was married to Robert Thurston Nickell for 44 happy years (1944-1988). They co-owned Nickell Plumbing for 20 years. Despite her small stature, she was indomitable, as those who worked at Champion with her could attest. She started at Champion in 1980, and retired 24 years later as head of security – at the young age of 80.

Lou was active in band boosters and served faithfully as a "homeroom mom" for both her girls. She was also a Girl Scout leader for 11 years. Lou also was a world traveler, visiting Germany, Egypt, Israel, Mexico, and England. Even as an octogenarian, she enjoyed travel, hopping to the Hawaiian Islands to spend time with her grand- and great-grandchildren. When she wasn't globetrotting, busy with family or puttering about her farm, she enjoyed volunteering at the First Baptist Church Family Life Center.

Lou was preceded in death by her husband, Robert T. Nickell, her mother and father, Arch and Byrta Pegoda, her sister Eunice (Casey) Larson, and her nephew Jarret "Rusty" Larson.

Lou will be dearly missed by family both close and extended, near and far. She is survived by daughters: Kathryn Nickell and Susan Michele; grandchildren: Michael Yawn, Michele (Shawn) Patrick, and Debra (Jeremy) Wion; great-grandchildren: Chris and Tayler Patrick, and Alissa and Lydia Wion. Her dear friend Joyce Timmons will surely miss her company and her joy for life. Extended family include: nephew Jerry (Mary) Larson, great-nephew J.C. Larson, great-niece Robin (Joe) Dupre, great-great-nephew Dylan Dupre, great-nephews Greg (Marilyn) Larson and Jeff (Patty) Larson, and great-niece Kristin (Alan) Norris.

Visitation will be held in the chapel at First Baptist Church, 1229 Avenue J, on Saturday, August 29, 2015, at 2:00pm. A memorial service will follow at 3:00pm. Burial will be held at Beasley Cemetery near Groveton, Texas. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to your favorite charity, or to First Baptist Church, Huntsville, Texas.

Services arranged by Groveton Funeral Home, Directors. Please share your memories with the family and sign the online guestbook at www.grovetonfuneralhome.com