Eric J Nichols

Eric Nichols, 58, passed away on July 4, 2026, when he took his own life in his home. While his passing came from a battle many may not have seen, it does not define the life he lived, the love he gave, or the countless lives he touched. Born on February 16,1968 in Wilkes Barre, he was the son of the late Harry and Nancy Lane Nichols, Eric spent his life doing what he did best — taking care of the people around him. Eric graduated from James M. Couglin High School. He worked in the food service industry for the majority of his life. He served as GM and RGM for Long John Silvers for many years and that is how he made his home in Lancaster. He was currently working for the Rainmaker's Association Lodge. He had previously worked for Cork and Cap Restaurant as their executive chef, the former Copper Hill in Millersville and often helped in the kitchen at the Riverside Camping Association. Eric loved cooking, being a dad, and cheering on his beloved Pittsburgh Steelers, but above all else, he loved being a grandfather. His grandchildren knew him as Poppop, a name that would eventually follow him beyond his family. In every kitchen he worked in and every life he touched, he became known simply as “Pops.” For Eric, food was love. It was how he cared for people, how he brought them together, and how he made sure everyone around him felt looked after. Whether he was cooking a meal, cracking a sarcastic joke, or giving someone a hard time just to make them smile, Eric had a way of leaving an impression. He will be remembered for his quick wit, his unforgettable humor, his sarcasm, and, most importantly, his kind heart. Eric was the person who showed up for others — the one who took care of everyone. Eric belonged to the Rainmaker's Association, Riverside and the Hubley Club. Eric is survived by his children, Victoria L. Vernon, companion of Steven M. Gable of Waynesboro, Virginia, Nathan J. Nichols, companion of Laura Dorris of Lancaster and Danielle N. Nichols, companion of Stephen Blake of Lancaster; his beloved grandchildren, Kayson B. Gable, Emberlyn G. Nichols, and Luna M. Gable; and his brother, Gregory Nichols, husband of Dina Latinski-Nichols of Wilkes Barre. He was preceded in death by both his parents, and 2 of his brothers, Harry and David Nichols. A celebration of Eric’s life and memories will be held at Rainmakers in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, on August 8, 2026. Family and friends are encouraged to gather, share stories, bring photos, laugh, cry, and remember the man who gave so much of himself to the people around him. Eric’s final chapter was one moment in a much larger story — a story filled with laughter, family, food, love, and the many people lucky enough to call him Pops.

Eric J Nichols

February 16, 1968 - July 4, 2026