Robert Nichols

Robert Lee “Bob” Nichols of Odessa passed away Sunday, May 13, 2012, in Lubbock, Texas just two months shy of his 70th birthday. Bob had lived the previous two years at Southern Specialties Rehab and Nursing Center in Lubbock where he battled a long illness.

Bob, also known as “Sonny,” to his family, was born July 30, 1942 in rural Oklahoma. He attended school in Odessa, TX and Louisiana. After high-school graduation, he enlisted in the Navy where he served honorably as an aerial photographer.

After his discharge from the Navy, Bob continued his flying as a professional pilot. Bob was an instrument and multi-engine rated pilot, qualified to fly many types of aircraft. He worked for many years serving Area Builders, Clyde Construction, NDT Systems, and was a member of the QBs. After his flying career ended, Bob continued working, first for MHMR and later for First American Home Buyers Protection.

Bob retired in 2007, and relished the opportunity to take on his biggest and best project of all; just being Paw Paw to his two grandchildren, Patrick and Kaylee. Patrick and Kaylee were the loves of his life. Nothing gave him more pleasure than watching Patrick play football and Kaylee dance and cheer. He rarely missed a game or recital. You could always find him in the front row of any event with his camera in hand; ready to capture the action and their smiles.

Bob had a true passion for photography that started from his early years in the service. He took many amazing and beautiful photographs all over the world, but his favorite photos were those he took close to home of family and friends. Other passions included Dallas Cowboy football, computers, and playing poker with friends.

Survivors include his wife, Naomi Nichols; daughter and son-in-law Shelia and Rick Pippins; grandchildren, Patrick and Kaylee Pippins; all of Odessa, one sister, Joan Maliden and husband Tonky of Foxworth, Mississippi and several nieces and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Harold Robert Nichols and Betty Jo Brougher; two brothers, Bryon (Butch) Nichols of Cleburn, Texas and Perry Brougher, of Denver, Colorado.

A memorial service will be held Thursday, May 24, 2012, at 4:00 PM, at Crossroads Fellowship Church, Hwy 191 and Faudree Road, in Odessa.