God changed Gary Nichols' itinerary last Saturday night in Sevierville, TN. Instead of sending him home to Anderson, SC, God called him to his eternal home in Heaven, but not before he had spent a week with his beloved wife, Gaye, and son, Greg, showing his latest car masterpiece among 800 vehicles.

Gary Dale Nichols, 82, lovingly known as "Poppie," died peacefully in his sleep on September 20, 2026. He was born June 26, 1944, in North Wilkesboro, NC, a son of A.F. and Becky Cook Nichols.

He was married to his soulmate, Gaye Parsons Nichols, for 64 years. He was the loving father of Gregory and Graylon Nichols (Courtney), and Garrett Nichols Norris (Ryan). He was the grandfather of nine grandchildren: Braden (Jessi), Adam (Lauren), Corbin (Jacy), Tucker (Catherine), Jake, Sophia, Lawson, Ellie, and Houston; and six great-grandchildren: Eli, Banks, Jack, Miller, Buddy, and Campbell. He was a brother to Michael Gale Nichols.

Gary loved his family, his cars, his dogs, "Peanut" and "Little Bit," and his "Deers." He was loving, kind-hearted, and a jokester. He was a devoted Christian who lived by the Golden Rule. He was a multitalented classic car builder and enthusiast, as well as a competitor in car shows.

Gary's early years were spent in sales and management at Lowe's. After retirement, he was active in the automotive industry.

He was the "Red Bull" before it came in a can; he loved all things fast that filled him with adrenaline. He loved side-by-sides, dirt bikes, horse shows, and team penning.

Gary and Gaye have been members of Concord Baptist Church for over 20 years. Earlier, they attended Parkwood Baptist, where he served as a deacon.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 11:00 am at Concord Baptist Church. The family will receive friends prior to the service at the church from 10:00-10:45 am. A private family committal will be held at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens.

Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be made to Concord Baptist Church All Generations Building Fund, 1012 Concord Rd., Anderson, SC 29621.

Condolences may be left for the family by visiting WWW.MCDOUGALDFUNERALHOME.COM