James W. Nicholson, Jr., 79, of Lewiston, NY, died peacefully with his family by his side at Niagara Hospice House in Lockport, NY on March 5, 2025.  Born in Piedmont, AL, he was the son of the late James W. Nicholson and Eula Maxine (Parker) Nicholson.

James graduated from Spring Garden High School in Piedmont, AL.  James proudly served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War from 1970 until his honorable discharge in 1974 as a Sergeant.  On August 21, 1976, he married Jean (DiRamio) Nicholson in Niagara Falls, NY.  Mrs.  Nicholson predeceased him on October 15, 2019.  James was first employed as Security Air Force Police on the Niagara Falls 914 Air Force Base, and then Nia Tec, Treasure Knit as a sewing machine repair man and later as a security guard at Olin Mathieson all in Niagara Falls, NY.

James moved to Alabama with his wife and family where he owned and operated Papa's Pizza in Foley, AL and later worked security at Condos on the Beach in Gulf Shores, AL.  James was a Deacon at The Restored Church of God in Alabama and Texas and was a current member of the Church of God Worldwide Association of Buffalo.  He enjoyed time with his children and grandchildren and loved the beach and outdoors.

James is survived by his children, Andrea (Keith Steen) Sloane, Kelly (Don) Hotaling, Vincent (Mario) Nicholson and Rachael (Alex) Groen; grandchildren, Ricky (Bridget) Donaldson, Gretchen (Brandon) Donaldson, Matthew (Taylor) Donaldson, Don, Marissa, Matthew and Jacob Hotaling, Zander, Zachary, Phebe and Anneliese Groen; eight great grandchildren, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.  He was predeceased by his siblings, Genea (Bruce) Jorgenson, Gerald (Mary) Nicholson, Terry (Janice) Nicholson and David (Susan) Nicholson.

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 14 from 10 AM - 12 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY 14304, where funeral services will begin at 12 Noon.   Interment in Riverdale Cemetery, Lewiston, NY with Military Honors.  Memorial offerings may be made to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Drive, Lockport, NY 14094.  Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.