Augustus Nicholson

Augustus Reeves Nicholson, East Ridge, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2012.Gus was born April 3, 1939, in Augusta, Ga., was a graduate of Chattanooga High School, proudly served his country in the United States Coast Guard, held membership in the VFW, and was retired from Combustion Engineering.He was privileged to claim two church homes being a lifelong member of St. Elmo United Methodist Church and faithfully attended Jones Memorial United Methodist Church with his wife, Helen, for the past four years.It can be truly said that Gus was a gentleman and a gentle man who never met a stranger. His sharp wit, gentle smile, charitable ways, and gracious manner endeared him to all with whom he came into contact. He enjoyed a wide range of interests a few of which were fishing, tennis, natures majesty, military history, collecting friends and a good meal.Gus was particularly close to the Grandys of Grandy, N.C., and considered them as his family.This world was made a better place for his having been here.Gus was preceded in death by his mother Chloe Touchton Nicholson; father Paul Overby Nicholson; and two sons Reeves and Edward.He is survived by his wife, Helen Birkholz Parker Nicholson; two stepchildren, Elaine Kemper and Jeff (JoEllen) Parker; three stepgrandchildren; and three stepgreat-grandchildren.The family will receive friends from 11:30 to 12:30 p.m. today, Feb. 3 at Jones Memorial UMC with funeral service at 1 p.m. with Rev. Larry Dial and Rev. Dr. Mark Dowell officiating.Interment will follow at Chattanooga National Cemetery with full military honors.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Elmo UMC, Jones Memorial UMC or Holston Home for Children.Please share your condolences at www.chattanoogaeastchapel.com.Arrangements are by the East Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 404 S. Moore Road.