Denise Peterson Nichols of Harrells, NC, departed her earthly life on February 14, 2025, while in the care of Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center.  Born on April 4, 1954, she is the daughter of the late Elbert and Mary Lou Potts Peterson.  She is also preceded in death by a son—David Patrick Campbell.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband—Ray Franklin Nichols II; son—Adam Lars Nichols and wife Heather Lee of Clinton; grandchildren—Ava Larain, Ayla Nichols, and Julie Nichols; great grandchildren—Aiden, Alivia, and Noah; siblings—Craig Peterson and wife Amy of Clinton, Sharon Lucier of Clinton, and Christie Wise of Roseboro; and sister-in-law—Kathy Walker and husband Rusty of Topsail Island.

Mrs. Nichols was a very dignified southern lady who enjoyed being a homemaker, mother, and grandmother.  She worked for some time as office manager for a local company who processed videos for the funeral industry.  With a constant smile, she was always happy and was noted to have remarkably beautiful eyes.  Always concerned about others, she never talked negatively about others and was quick to remove herself from any conversation involving this activity.

A memorial to celebrate her life is set for 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 23, 2025, in the 401 West Main Street chapel of Padgett Funeral Home in Wallace, NC.  Family will greet friends at a visitation prior to the service at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel.