Sylvia Mae Nichols

In Loving Memory of Sylvia Mae Nichols

Sylvia Mae Nichols (Knepper), 94, passed away on March 21, 2026, in Poway, California. She was born on October 16, 1931, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and grew up on her family's farm in New Kingstown, PA as second oldest of eight children.

Sylvia was the first of her family to leave home for college and graduated from Asbury University, Kentucky. Post graduation, she moved to California to pursue her teaching credential at UCLA. She went on to teach English in the Los Angeles County School District, where her love of literature inspired countless students over the years.

In 1967, she married Richard I. Nichols and for more than 30 years, she lovingly managed the children's program at the Unitarian Church in North Hollywood, touching the lives of generations of families. She found great joy in choral music, both as a listener and a participant in the Wagner Ensemble.  In life, she also loved gardening, riding bikes, swimming, scuba diving and traveling.

Sylvia was known for her quiet kindness and patience, always putting others before herself. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, grace, and gentle generosity.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard I. Nichols. She is survived by her son Gregory (Cori), and her grandchildren Ashton and Casey Nichols.

Sylvia will be laid to rest at Miramar National Cemetery in San Diego, California on April 30, 2026 in a private service.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Sylvia Mae Nichols, please visit our floral store.