Nancy Marie Nicholas, 75, of Barnhart died March 6, 2026, at her home. Mrs. Nicholas was a 1968 St. Pius X High School graduate. She received her bachelor’s degree in elementary education in 1972 from Southeast Missouri State University and later received her master’s degree. She taught second grade for the Jefferson R-7 School District for 30 years, earning the Emerson Teacher of the Year award in 1985. Following retirement, she was a paraprofessional aide for 15 years at Windsor C-1 School District. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Parish in Imperial, a member of NEA (National Education Association) and the Joachim Ladies Golf Team. She enjoyed playing golf, doing yardwork, bowling, walking and traveling. She will be remembered for her kindness and warmth. Born Oct. 2, 1950, in St. Louis, she was the daughter of the late Ardelle (Meese) and Richard Wallman.
She is survived by her husband of 52 years: Robert “Bob” Nicholas; a daughter: Katie Nicholas of Dallas, Texas; a granddaughter: Chloe Nicholas-Deardurff of Dallas, Texas; a son: Robert Nicholas of Indianapolis, Ind.; a sister: Mary Buck-Schumm (Ralph) Brown of Festus; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
She was preceded in death by a sister: Elizabeth “Betty” Ann (Kenneth survives of Crystal City) Stackley.
Visitation is scheduled from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, March 12, at Vinyard Funeral Home, 616 W. Main St., in Festus. A funeral Mass is scheduled for 10 a.m. Friday, March 13, at St. Joseph Catholic Parish, 6020 Old Antonia Road, in Imperial, officiated by Father Donald Morris. Interment will be in St. Joseph Cemetery in Imperial. Arrangements are under the direction of Vinyard Funeral Home.