Shirley Nichols

Shirley Jean Nichols (White), 79, of Cumberland, MD, passed away peacefully at home with her beloved husband of 61 years by her side, surrounded by family and love on October 24, 2025.

Shirley was born July 30th, 1946 in Cumberland, MD, the daughter of Betty Lee (Twigg) Kemp and Roy Cecil White. She graduated from Fort Hill High School in 1964, and shortly thereafter she snuck off to elope with the love of her life, Clarence “Sonny” Arthur Nichols with the help of her sister and some clever shenanigans. They knew better and their devotion to each other over the course of their lifetime together proved they indeed, knew what they were doing.

Shirley was a homemaker, wife, mother and grandmother by definition, but to us, she was the family matriarch and center of our world. She ran her house like a tight ship with a gourmet kitchen to feed everyone that came to her house. Her selflessness and generosity knew no bounds, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of friends and family alike. Her legacy of love will be cherished by all who had the privilege of sharing in her journey. She made sure that her home was welcomed by all.

Shirley was an incredible character with many hobbies and interests. She loved laying in the sun, watching General Hospital (especially Sonny Corinthos) and drinking her fountain Pepsi. She spoiled her children and grandchildren and inspired all of us with her warm generosity, as well as her fierce tenacity. She never gave up, and she didn't allow you to either. She demonstrated this with her unwavering spirit in the 7 years she battled cancer, defying all expectations with her dazzling impish grin. Shirley lived on Shirley’s terms by sharing her thoughts after being diagnosed with lung cancer she said”. It’s in God’s hands, what will be will be.” She never shed one tear during this terrible disease.

Shirley was a woman of faith, and a patron of Saint Mary’s Catholic church. She lived her life in a way that honored her faith and values and her faith gave her both strength and grace all the way to the end, where she took comfort in returning home to God.

Remaining to cherish Shirley's memory are her husband Clarence Arthur Nichols, Son Bernard Samuel Nichols III and Wife Shannon Nichols, Daughter Candice Smith, and David Smith. Brothers Robert Lee White and wife Eilleen White, Frank Cecil White and wife Beverly White, William Eugene White and wife Robin, and her sisters, Patsy “Sis” Ann Robertson and husband Buck.

Shirley was a phenomenal grandmother to 7, Austin Williams and wife Stephanie, Justin Nichols and wife Caitlyn, Jordan Nichols and wife Tatiana, Erica Williams, Alexander Smith, Anthony Smith and Annabella Jean Smith.

Shirley was blessed with 10 great-grandchildren, Brighton Beachy, Chloe Williams, Colton Williams, Crew Williams, Charleigh Nichols, Liam Nichols, Melody Kennedy, Meilani Nichols, Makoa Nichols and Malia Nichols.

She is preceded in death by her mother Betty Lee Kemp, father Roy Cecil White, Sr., sister Faye Ellen White, brother Roy Cecil White, Jr.

Shirley’s family would like to give a big thank you to Dr. Qamar Zaman and the Schwab Family Cancer Center at UMPC Western Maryland for taking great care of Shirley.

A very special thank you to two individuals who helped Shirley in her fight with this terrible disease, Serena Birgerman and Durwood Habel. Serena brought joy and happiness in every day when she came to assist her. Serena went above and beyond to make sure Shirley got everything she needed to be healthy and happy. Shirley was so excited and would have the biggest smile on her face with the sight of Serena. The love that Serena showed was a love that made her a part of Shirley’s loving family. She was there until Shirley went peacefully to the Lord. Durwood Habel was always there to assist Shirley and Clarence with anything they needed, but most of all he became part of the family, too. Thank you for all of the love and support from everyone who helped to make Shirley happy, even during the tough days, over the past seven years. We love all of you!

Visitation will be on Thursday, October 30th, from 6 to 8:00 p.m., at Scarpelli Funeral Home, P.A., 108 Virginia Avenue, Cumberland. The rosary will be prayed beginning at 8:00 p.m.

A funeral mass will be held on October 31st, beginning at 10 a.m., St. Mary’s Church, 300 E Oldtown Road, Cumberland, MD.

Inurnment will follow at Restlawn Memorial Gardens, LaVale, MD.

May Shirley Jean Nichols rest in eternal peace, free from pain, and may she be remembered for the love and light she brought into the lives of others.