Mr. Jack J. Nichols died peacefully on 12-19-18 in Huntsville, AL at the age of 83. Jack is survived by his daughter, Connie Horton of Birmingham, AL; son, Jay Nichols (Trish) of Huntsville, AL; grandchildren, Nick Horton of Ft. Myers, FL, Grant Horton (Allison) of Birmingham, AL, and Andrew F. Nichols (Kathryn) of Huntsville, AL. He is preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Sylvia Nichols of Huntsville AL.
Jack was born on January 5th, 1935 in Coffee County, AL to Andrew E. and Lonie Nichols. He graduated from Auburn University in 1957 with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering. He later would go on to earn a Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Alabama in 1960. After moving to Huntsville, AL, Jack began working for the Army Ballistic Missile Agency as an Aerospace Engineer. He married Sylvia Pate, a member of his work carpool on September 28, 1958. Jack was a charter member of NASA when it was formed in 1958. He had an accomplished career at NASA including serving as Chief Engineer of the External Tank for the Space Shuttle Program from 1980 to 1989. Jack enjoyed spending time with family and friends, fishing and being on the lake.
Visitation will be from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 22nd, at Laughlin Service Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Glenn Connor officiating.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to St. Jude’s Children Hospital.
