Julius Lavern Nichols

Julius Lavern Nichols better known as Vail to most was born November 25, 1960, to Jimmy Nichols Sr. and Linda J. Nichols in Waco, Texas. As a little boy growing up Vail was joined at the hip with his older brother Jimmy. Then when little brother Ricky enter the picture, they became the three musketeers. Where one went the other two were sure to follow. As a young child Vail attended the family’s founding church of Lovers Leap Baptist church in Waco, Texas. Later in life he attended New Light Church in Pleasant Grove, Texas with his brother, sister and mother. As a child growing up one of his favorite scripture even until death was the 23rd numbers of Psalm. Although Vail was introduced to God at an early age it was at New Light Church where Vail truly cultivated his relationship with God.

Vail was a graduate of Waco High class of 1979. As a child he was extraordinary athlete, he played all sports from baseball to football. He was a proud Boy Scout as an adolescent. Vail was known as the most savvy and best dressed sibling growing up. Right after high school in November of 1979 he enlisted in the U.S. Airforce. He was in the Airforce from 1979 to 1988. Then later in life he received his associate’s in Computer Maintenance and Networking from Grayson in College and attended Baylor University in 2016. 

Preceding Vail in death are father, Jimmy Nichols Sr.; Mother, Linda J. Nichols; Great-Grandmother, Betty (Nana) White; 2nd Mother, Bobbie Nichols, Favorite Aunt, Victoria (Vickie) Johnson

Remaining to cherish Vail memory is his Lifelong Partner Christi Bradford and Former Spouse Donna Renee’ Nichols. Through his union to Donna he was a father figure and leave behind Daughters: Kimberly Page (Shane), LaWanda Cowley (Steve), LaTonya Marshall (Thomas), LaN’ell Hunt. Son: Orvelle (Bear)Hunt and 15 Grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. Leaves Siblings: Jimmy (Brinda) Nichols, Ricky (Natasha) Dawson, Linda Sue Nichols, Carol (Maurice) Gindratt, Robert (Amanda) Nichols and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.