Funeral services celebrating the life and legacy of Minette Kay Nichols, 81, of Calhoun, Louisiana will be held at 11:00 A.M., Monday, August 24th, 2026, in Feazel Chapel at First West Baptist Church with Dr. Mark Fenn and Rev. Michael Wood officiating. Interment will follow immediately after at Roselawn Memorial Gardens, under the direction of Mulhearn Funeral Home, West Monroe.

The visitation will be held from 9:30 A.M. until the time of service.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Minette Kay Nichols. She was born on February 17th, 1945, in Winnsboro, Texas and went home to be with the Lord on August 19th, 2026, at her residence in Calhoun and was surrounded by her loving family.

Minette lived her life with a heart full of grace, generosity, and unwavering love. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great‑grandmother, daughter, and friend, she carried each role with quiet strength and a selflessness that defined her very being. To her family, she was simply Nana the steady, joyful center of their world and the embodiment of unconditional love.

Nana found beauty in life’s simplest pleasures. She delighted in baking treats for her loved ones, sending thoughtful cards to friends and family, tending to her cherished rock garden, and watching the red birds that brought her so much peace. Her home was a place of warmth and welcome, especially on Christmas Eve, when she hosted gatherings that became treasured family traditions. Those nights filled with laughter, stories, and togetherness are memories her family will hold close forever.

Her faithful cat, Rocky, was her constant companion, offering comfort and company through every season of life. Among her many joys, Nana shared a particularly special bond with her granddaughter, Britney. Their time together full of conversation, shared adventures, and quiet moments was a source of deep happiness for them both.

Nana’s love extended far beyond her home. She earned her CDL license so she could join Papaw on his trucking journeys, embracing the adventure of seeing God’s beautiful country. She especially treasured the breathtaking snow‑covered landscapes of Canada, moments that filled her with awe and gratitude.

Her life was a testament to service. Minette devoted herself to caring for others, always placing their needs above her own. She was an active member of First West Calhoun and the Women’s Life Group, where she served joyfully and faithfully. Whether greeting families with her radiant smile, helping prepare and serve communion, or pouring her heart into vacation Bible school, Minette lived out her faith with humility and devotion. Her love for the Lord was the foundation of her life, guiding her steps and shaping her spirit.

To know Minette was to be blessed by kindness, steadiness, and a love that asked for nothing in return. Her legacy is one of compassion, faith, and family. A legacy that will continue to shine through the lives of those she touched.

She will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Minette was the daughter of the late, George Leroy Cowser and Dolly Dimple Cowser. In addition to her parents, Minette was preceded in death by her son, Mark Nichols; granddaughter, Kerri Michelle Griggs; son-in-law, Chuck Dray; son-in-law, Kerry Griggs; and nephew, J.C. Korenek.

Those left to honor and cherish her memory are her husband of sixty-three years, Mickey Nichols; daughter, Nicole Dray and her fiancé, Bill Wyrick; son, Mike Nichols and his wife, Joan; daughter, Mechelle Rugg and her husband, Ken; son, Ricky Nichols; grandchildren, Dustyn Nichols (Holly), Cody Dray (Anna), Britney Griggs (Kelcey), Tylar Nichols (Shelby), Chase Blackwelder (Harley), Devin Nichols (Sydney), Chris Rugg, and Ryan Rugg; great grandchildren, Avah Peveto, Cole Dray, Taylor Dray, Lauren Nichols, Grant Nichols, Scotlyn Blackwelder, Auldyn Blackwelder, Grace Elizabeth Nichols, Paisley Rugg, Cameron Rugg, and Reese Rugg; brother, Benny Cowser and wife, Debbie; as well as many nieces, nephews, loved ones and friends.

The pallbearers will be her beloved grandsons, Dustyn Nichols, Cody Dray, Tylar Nichols, Chase Blackwelder, Devin Nichols, and Chris Rugg.

The honorary pallbearers will be Ken Rugg, Bill Wyrick, Danny Brister, and Kirk Brister.