Dr. Robert E. Nicholls, a man of profound faith, authenticity, and depth of character, passed away peacefully on Sunday evening, May 3, 2026, at the age of 90. He faced a brief illness with the same quiet courage that defined his entire life, leaving behind a legacy spanning continents and touching countless hearts.
A native of New London, Connecticut, Bob attended schools across Michigan, Montana, and Virginia. He established long-term roots in Fredericksburg, Va., and later spent his final years in Hampton, Va.
A Marine’s Honor
From 1953 through 1961, Bob served in the United States Marine Corps as a Sergeant and field radio operator for the Second Marine Division at Camp Lejeune, N.C. His life was defined by an unwavering loyalty to his country—a service he held as his highest honor. A recipient of the Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Medal, Bob carried the Marine spirit with him for the next seven decades. Even at 90 years old, he wore his Marine ball-cap with pride, and his enthusiastic “Oorah!” remained a joyful trademark of his character.
A Life of Ministry and Innovation
Bob’s commitment to service was multifaceted. In the 1960s, he followed a divine calling, graduating from Washington Bible College and becoming an ordained minister. He founded Faith Baptist Mission in his hometown of Fredericksburg, building a foundation of faith for his community.
Simultaneously, Bob became a fixture in Virginia’s energy sector. From the Possum Point Power Station to the North Anna Nuclear Generating Station, he balanced his spiritual ministry with technical excellence. He eventually dedicated over 30 years of committed service to the Surry Nuclear Power Station located in Surry, VA.
His expertise was not contained by borders. In 1992, Bob was selected as a Citizen’s Ambassador to Ukraine following the Chernobyl crisis. For his contributions to international safety and diplomacy, he was awarded an honorary doctorate from the Embassy of Ukraine. His work took him across the globe—through Ukraine, Russia, Kiev, Siberia, China, and Japan—sharing his knowledge to help heal and protect other nations. Bob assisted the Director of the United States Peace Corps, Washington D.C., in entering Ukraine for the first time in the history of our two countries.
A Champion for the Vulnerable
In retirement, Bob’s heart for service only grew. As CEO of the Jackson Feild Home for Girls, he worked tirelessly to provide a haven for children facing trauma, mental illness, and addiction. His advocacy extended internationally through his support of Our Little Roses in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, an organization dedicated to providing a full-time residential home for abused, abandoned, and neglected girls.
Even in the business world, Bob sought to uplift others, founding AIC (Associates International) LLC to mentor fledgling businesses with his astute acumen and gentle guidance. He also dedicated his personal Facebook page to AIC Good News, sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ—the true passion of his heart—building a community of over 5,000 followers.
Legacy and Family
Bob is survived by his wife, Ann M. Nicholls of Hampton, Va., and reunited in heaven with his parents, Albert Charles Nicholls and Gladys Stiles Nicholls.
His memory will be cherished by his devoted children: his son, David Nicholls (New Bern, NC), and his daughters, Debra A. Nicholls (Newport News, VA), Angel Nicholls-Ulrich, and Ann’s loving daughter, Maria Thomas (Bobby Thomas). He is also survived by his brothers, Charles A. Nicholls and Glenn Nicholls Sr., both of Fredericksburg, Va. Bob had 11 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and 8 great-great-grandchildren, and a wide circle of friends and associates who were bettered by his kindness.
To know Bob was to know laughter, gentleness, and a deep, abiding love for life. Throughout every chapter, he remained a man “forever tuned in to his heavenly Father’s voice.”
He was a rare soul who walked with both the strength of a Marine and the heart of a servant. As those who knew him can best attest: “There will never be another Bob Nicholls.
He leaves behind a void that no one else could possibly fill.”
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7
Well done, good and faithful servant. Matthew 25:21
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to Our Little Roses in his honor. https://secure.anedot.com/ourlittleroses/inmemoryofrobertnicholls
A graveside service will be held on Monday, June 1, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Albert G. Horton, Jr. Veterans Memorial Cemetery.