Ronald Lewis Nichols, 86, of Wheelersburg, passed away on Friday, July 19, 2024, in Moab, UT, while doing one of his favorite things – traveling with his beloved wife, sister, and brother-in-law.
Ron was born on October 25, 1937, in McGuffey, OH, the son of the late Rev. Lewis Emery and Mary Esther Jarvis Nichols. Following graduation from Elida High School in 1956 the family moved to Portsmouth, where Ron met the love of his life, Donna Louise Staten Nichols, of New Boston. On May 20, 1961, Ron’s father, the Rev. Lewis Nichols, united the couple in marriage at the former Franklin Avenue United Methodist Church.
A hard-working man of many skills, he worked several jobs throughout the years, including positions at the former Empire-Detroit Steel Corp. and the Williams Shoe Company, as well as management positions for the former Keck Distributing, Giuseppe’s Pizza, and McDonald’s. He also worked as a salesman for Keibler.
However, he found his niche and truly loved meeting all his friends throughout the many years he sold hot dogs. Affectionately known by most people in our area as ‘Ron the Hot Dog Man,’ he sold hot dogs on the Portsmouth Esplanade and could be counted on to provide a great lunch, no matter the weather.
His customers were always greeted by his contagious smile and infectious personality. You would likely also get the latest sports updates on the Portsmouth Trojans and Ohio State Buckeyes, among other local sports teams.
Ron was a longtime member of Cornerstone Church. He also served in the Army National Guard. He loved traveling, especially enjoying our National Parks. In addition to the Trojans and Buckeyes, he was an avid fan of the Cleveland Browns, Guardians, and Cavaliers much to his family’s dismay. If they were playing you could likely find him by the nearest TV or radio.
Ron was a great friend and a wonderful family man. He will be remembered as a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, and a fabulous big brother who always looked out for his little sister, Reva.
Surviving Ron is his wife of 63 years, Donna L. Nichols; his four children, Mike Nichols and Steve Nichols, both of Ft. Myers, FL, Debbie (Bryan) Smith of Portsmouth and David (Shelli) Nichols of Piketon; his sister, Reva Lynn (James) Motto of Ft. Myers, FL; five grandchildren, Megan Nichols, Justin (Alison) Ottney, Nick Nichols, Jacob Nichols and Drew Smith; and two great-grandchildren, Devon and Drake.
Friends of the family may call Ralph F. Scott Funeral Home on Thursday, July 25, from 4-7 P.M. as well as one hour before the Celebration of Ron’s Life, which will be held at noon on Friday, July 26, at Cornerstone Church in Portsmouth with Rev. Tim Roth officiating. The interment will be in Memorial Burial Park in Wheelersburg, OH, following the church service. Memorial contributions may be made to Cornerstone Church, 808 Offnere St., Portsmouth, OH 45662.
