Obituary of Joann Dolores (Mullenax) Nichols

Joann Dolores Nichols, 92, of Fairmont, peacefully passed away in her home on Friday, August 1, 2025. She was born in Fairmont on June 28, 1933, a daughter to the late William Lapsley and Margaret Hawley Mullenax. She is survived by her loving daughter, Margaret Viands, her grandson, D.J. Viands and his wife Michelle, her great-grandson, Bryson Viands, her sister Joyce Wells, and her sisters-in-law, Kay Mullenax, and Joanie Audia. In addition to her parents, Joann was preceded in death by her first husband Claude Fredrick Howell, and her second husband, Richard Ivan Nichols. Joann was also preceded in death by her brothers, Bill Mullenax, Sam Mullenax, Bob Mullenax, and Denzil Matthews, her sister, Diane Matthews, and her son-in-law, Francis Viands. Joann was a retired night manager for Stone & Thomas Department Store. She was a long-time active member of Baptist Temple Church in Fairmont, and was a graduate of Fairmont Senior High School and Fairmont State College. What she enjoyed most was being surrounded by her close friends and family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ford Funeral Home, Ford Chapel, 201 Columbia Street, Fairmont, WV 26554. In accordance with Joann’s wishes, cremation service will occur. Friends will be received at Baptist Temple 430 Morgantown Avenue, Fairmont, WV 26554 on Friday, August 8, 2025 from 10a.m. until 12 noon. A Memorial Service to celebrate her life will be held at Baptist Temple at 12 noon with Reverend Dr. Allan Copenhaver officiating. A private graveside service will be held at a later date at Mt. Zion Cemetery and Mausoleum. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.fordfuneralhomes.com.