Joan C. Nichols

Joan Coxen Nichols was born on March 4, 1930, the third daughter of Helen (Spahr) and Blanton Coxen. A lifelong resident of Indianapolis, she attended IPS Schools #76 and #66 and later Shortridge High School, graduating class of 1948.

Butler University was her choice for college, where she majored in Elementary Education. At Butler, she joined Kappa Alpha Theta sorority, and graduated in 1952.

Joanie was married to architect Tom Laycock in 1958 at Northwood Christian Church, which became her home church from then on. Together they raised two sons and a daughter. Among their many travels and local activities, Joanie volunteered her time to the Children’s Museum Guild and co-chaired of one of the first Haunted Houses. She also was a member of St. Margaret’s Guild and served a term as President of that organization. Joanie was preceded in death by Mr. Laycock in 1982.

In 1986 Joanie married Scott Nichols, adding his three daughters to their combined family. Joanie and Scott’s shared dedication created a legacy of warmth and love for their children and grandchildren, who have greatly enjoyed many years of fun and celebrations together. Favorite memories of the large family include summer holidays at the cottage at Lake Monroe, boating, swimming, and lots of cook-outs and birthday parties throughout the year. Christmas Day always included a brunch and gift-exchange with all the kids and grandkids, and eventually great-grands, too. Scott and Joanie loved to spend time at beautiful Longboat Key, Florida during late winter and made it a yearly “get-away” trip.

Throughout her long and wonderful life, Joanie sought to exemplify the character traits described in Galatians 5:22 of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. She was a beautiful example of these and will be greatly missed by all who survive her. She is survived by sons Tom Laycock (Tracy), Dan Laycock (Michelle), and daughters Carolyn Nichols, Trish Poteet (Dane), Susie Pringle (Pat), and Joyce Bevington (Patrick), 14 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband and two grandsons.

A Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 13, from 11am to 12pm, with a Funeral Service to follow at 12pm, at Northwood Christian Church, 4550 Central Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46205.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Joanie’s memory to Northwood Christian Church, The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, or St. Margaret’s Hospital Guild.