Obituary for Larry Stephen Nicholson

Larry Nicholson, of Hayesville, NC, died peacefully at the age of 87 on the evening of Tuesday, January 24, 2023, in the presence of family.

Larry married his loving wife, Carolyn, in June 1960, and the two built a beautiful life together spanning decades of love, laughter, and adventure. He is survived by his wife; five children including three sons, Stephen and wife Lisa, Michael and wife Lesa, David and wife Jennifer, and two daughters, Patricia and Mary; ten grandchildren; three great grandchildren; and one brother, Rodney. He is preceded in death by his parents and four siblings.

Larry was born on September 10, 1935, to the late E.W. and Elizabeth Nicholson in Harrison, AR. He was the oldest of six children, and was always considered a provider for his family. He prided himself on hard work and the dedication it took to succeed. He graduated seminary at Southern Methodist University in 1965 and University of Puget Sound Law School in 1978, and was fulfilled by a life of ministry and serving others. He served several small congregations in Texas and Arkansas before moving out West to raise his family, where he served churches in WA and ID as part of Pacific Northwest Conference from 1967-1998 when he retired and moved to Hayesville, NC. Everyone who knew Larry through his 40 years of ministry felt the impact of his big heart and giving nature; his kind spirit helped him inspire others to love and accept unconditionally through the grace of God. He never knew a stranger, and was a natural at building relationships with anyone he ever met.

You would never find Larry without a book in his hand, a Sudoku puzzle to work on, or following an Atlanta Braves game on television or the radio. He was always up for a good debate, and was a lifelong learner of new things.

He leaves behind a legacy that will never be forgotten, and has touched the hearts and lives of so many. We take comfort in knowing that Larry is now at peace surrounded by light and love.


You may send tributes to the family at www.townson-rose.com