David Franklin Nickell Jr.'s Obituary
David Franklin Nickell Jr. was born on September 22, 1963, in Portsmouth, Virginia. He was a graduate of East High School and later retired as a Network Administrator.
David was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses on December 19, 1981, a decision that reflected his deep love for Jehovah and his lifelong desire to share that love with others. He faithfully served as an elder and loved serving as a regular pioneer in the Berwick Congregation in Ohio.
David was a wonderful son, brother, husband, father, uncle, grandfather, and dear friend to many. He had a rare gift—he could talk to anyone and make them feel comfortable and valued. Known for his loving heart, great sense of humor, and authentic nature, David left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
He enjoyed roller skating and loved buying tools. David also enjoyed fishing, golfing, playing cards, dancing, and always looking sharp. Most of all, he loved traveling with the love of his life.
David cherished spending time with family and friends and sharing his faith and love for Jehovah with others, especially encouraging the young ones.
A message from his granddaughter, Jade:
“David was known by many names—Boo, Uncle Dave, Babe—but to me, he was Papa and will always be my Papa. I know that he loved me very much. He told me every time I saw him. Papa was so creative—he could draw, sew, and make a mean sandwich. He could also make up a song within seconds. I love him so much. He could always make me laugh. He was so cool and swaggy. He was one of my favorite people in the world.”
On February 3, 2026, David peacefully went to sleep surrounded by family and friends. He was preceded in death by his sister, Yolonda Kim Bradley.
David’s warmth, faith, and kindness will be deeply missed, but his loving spirit and cherished memories will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Cynthia; his parents, David and Annie Nickell; his brother, Barry Nickell; his daughters, Amber (Nate) Hawkins and Brittany (John) Pace IV; his beloved granddaughters, Amore, London, Kendall, Jade, and Bella; his sisters-in-law, Linda McLaurin, Brenda (Ronald) Jackson, Judy (Duane) Marbury; his brother-in-law, Simon (Tasha) Carruthers; as well as several aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and so many dear friends who loved and will always remember him.
Memorial Service will be held at:
Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses
1555 College Avenue, Columbus, OH 43209
February 14, 2026 at 3:00PM
Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID 814-0029-7415
Password 429378
Dial in number
312-626-6799
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