David L. Nicholson

    David Lawrence Nicholson, 83, of Benton, Illinois, passed away on Saturday, February 25, 2023, at Wabash Christian Village in Carmi. He was born on August 29, 1939, in St. Louis, Missouri, the son of Lawrence and Lucille (Turner) Nicholson.  David married Jeanne Frances Winkler on October 17, 1959, and she survives. He was drafted into MLB right out of high school.  David spent his baseball career playing for the Chicago White Sox, Baltimore Orioles, Houston Astros, and the Atlanta Braves. After he left his baseball career, he went on to own a sporting goods store, and later worked as a tool and die sales representative. Our Dad was one of the most giving individuals we know. His devotion to family was unmatched. He loved to tell stories, usually about his favorite pastimes, golf, hunting, trap shooting, and his baseball days. He told some doozies. We will all miss him very much.

    In addition to his wife, Jeanne Nicholson, David is survived by his children, Tracy (Marc) Pavese of Benton, IL, Denise (Steve) Kendrick of Cuba, MO, Cara (Jeremy) Blevins of Newark, IL, and David (Bonnie) Nicholson Jr. of Hattiesburg, MS; grandchildren, Charlie Philpott, Michael Philpott, Danielle Ryan, Amanda Moss, Brianna Nicholson,  Brian Nicholson, Brayden Nicholson, Tony Pavese, Nick Pavese and Jen Haney; great-grandchildren, Olivia Philpott, Grayson Moss, Kinsley Ryan, Trevor Ryan, Liliana Pavese, and Anthony Pavese; and a brother, John "Jack" (Kathy) Nicholson of Fenton, MO; nieces, Michelle Nicholson and Kim Shetron; and a nephew, Michael Nicholson. He is preceded in death by his parents.
 
     A celebration of life for David Nicholson will be held from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 2, 2023, at Rockfair Tavern and Restaurant, located at 506 S. Franklin St., Cuba, Missouri, 65453. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Alzheimer's Association, and will be accepted at Campbell Funeral Home, 609 W. Main St, Carmi, IL 62821, who is in charge of arrangements. www.jordanfuneralgroup.com