Gerald E. Nichols

We bid farewell to Gerald E. Nichols, affectionately known by kin and shipmates as Jerry, whose soul took its heavenward flight on the 25th of August, 2024. Born under the harvest moon of 1937 in Cincinnati, Ohio, Jerry's journey led him to a peaceful departure amidst the loving embrace of Ellicott City, Maryland, succumbing to the natural ebb of life's tide.

His early years at Richmond High School forged the resolve that would see him serve 26 years with honor in the Navy, sailing the vast blue seas and returning to shore, serving as a helicopter technical professional with dedication and expertise. His later years found him imparting wisdom as a docent for the USS Midway Museum, where tales of the briny deep and the wild blue yonder captivated the minds of many.

Jerry's soul danced to the vibrant notes of dixieland jazz, and his hands skillfully commanded the flight of remote control airplanes, soaring as if to touch the face of the heavens. Generous, funny, loving—these words are but a shadow of the man whose laughter was a comfort to the weary and whose humanity was a guiding light in the night.

A steadfast anchor to his beloved wife, Medelina, and a guiding star to his children, Maria and John, Jerry's legacy is further enshrined in the hearts of his sister Jeanine Lagler, his cherished seven grandchildren, and the tender smile of a great-grandson.

From the Navy poem The Watch, “Today we are here to say ‘Shipmate… The watch stands relieved… Relieved by those you have trained, guided, and lead… Shipmate you stand relieved… We have the watch… ‘“Thus, in the wake of Jerry's eternal morn, we celebrate an extraordinary life filled with joy and the echoes of laughter that will forever resonate in the halls of memory. Fair Winds and Following Seas.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial Donations may be made online to the Midway Museum or Midway Foundation and note that it is to be recognized in Gerald Nichols' name.

If you prefer to mail a check, please include “In Memory of Gerald Nichols” in the memo line of the check and mail it to: USS Midway Museum, ATTN: Development, 910 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101