Jacqueline Nichols Obituary (1930 - 2023)

Jacqueline Cyr Nichols passed away on January 25, 2023 at her home in Waterville, Maine surrounded by her 7 loving children and cherished family and friends, who celebrated her life during the dying process. She was dearly supported by family and many friends and neighbors during her final months. Her appreciation and gratefulness for this was immense and expressed daily. Jackie was born in Waterville, Maine on June 28, 1930 to Joseph Albert Cyr and Brigitte Guite Cyr. She was the youngest of 18 children and the last survivor of her siblings. She grew up in Waterville , graduating from Waterville H. S. In 1947. She married Richard R Janelle in 1950. They had 7 children born in 4 states as they moved at various work assignments at General Electric. The family returned to Maine in 1962. Jackie remarried Vestor “Nick” Nichols in 1978 and enjoyed a loving relationship until his death in 2001. They spent summers in Maine and wintered in Beverly Hills, Fl. Jackie’s life of loving kindness , generosity , and compassion was an inspiration for all she encountered. She touched the lives of so many. Her natural ability to handle difficult circumstances with grace and determination set an example that we all aspire to. Jackie had a positive outlook on life. She was always ready to have an adventure, try something new, make a new friend and go to her favorite stores bargain shopping. Late in life she visited Thailand with two children. While there, she rode an elephant, took a bamboo raft down a mountain stream and sampled exotic cuisine (including silk worms!) Jackie had a love of dancing born in her teenage years which she enjoyed throughout her life. She was a devoted member of the Catholic Church at Sacred Heart and Notre Dame. A Mass at a future date will be said in her name. She is survived by her children David Janelle, Rick Janelle, Nancy Janelle, Susan Lee, Carol Janelle, Tom Janelle , and Cathy Janelle Cohen and their spouses along with 14 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her loving step children Mark Nichols and Johnette Whitaker, their children, grandchildren. Following cremation, a grave side service will be planned at a date to be determined. Donations in her name can be made MaineGeneral Hospice.