W.A. Nichols , 76, of Center, passed away Saturday, January 3, 2026, in Center.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.  Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Jenkins and Bro. Bradley Ford officiating.  Interment will follow at East Hamilton Cemetery in the East Hamilton Community of Shelby County.

Born March 10, 1949, in the East Hamilton Community of Shelby County, W.A. is the son of Alton "Buddy" Nichols and Westerfield Wright Nichols.  W.A. was a man known for his hardworking spirit, his love for family, and the simple joys that filled his days. He spent much of his time building things from the ground up, tending to his garden, or on his tractor—always finding purpose in working with his hands. When he wasn't doing that, he was devoted to his grandbabies, creating memories they will cherish forever. Rarely seen without a Zero Dr Pepper in his hand, W.A. loved deeply and cherished everyone in his life. To know him was to love him, and he will always be remembered for a life rooted in love, dedication, and family.

He is survived by his daughter, Melissa and husband Marlin Spears; grandchildren, Justin Taylor, Michael Spears and wife Laiton, Chase Spears, Kayla and husband Michael Gibbo; great grandchildren, Emberly Spears, Rhett Spears, and Wrenli Spears; numerous nieces and nephews; and sisters, Joy Bradshaw and Josephine Kettler.

Preceded in death by parents, Alton "Buddy" Nichols and Westerfield Wright Nichols; and brothers, Herbert "Bubba" Nichols, Robert Nichols, and J.C. Nichols.

Pallbearers will be Michael Spears, Michael Gibbo, Justin Taylor, Sam Nichols, Chase Spears, and Maison Rivers.