John Thomas Nick's Obituary
John T. Nick, fondly known as Tommy Nick, the first child born to the late Marion T. and James A. Nick, entered this life on September 26, 1921. God in His wisdom and mercy called him home to eternal rest on Friday, July 4, 2014 after a lengthy illness at his home in Severn, MD.
Tommy was born and raised in Shady Side, MD. Tommy, the oldest of six children was preceded in death by his brothers, James Eddie Nick and Clarence Holland.
Tommy was joined in Holy Matrimony to the late Arthenia Greer for 39 years, who preceded him in death. He was also blessed with two children, Lillie Mae Smith and the late John T. Nick, Jr., along with one daughter-in-law, Bertina Nick who preceded him in death.
Tommy attended Shady Side Elementary School and graduated from Wiley H. Bates High School in the class of 1939. He was employed at the Experimental Station for two years before being drafted into the U.S. Army. While there, he served in five countries: Italy, Manila, Guam, Germany, and Korea. In Germany, he graduated from the NCO Academy. Tommy retied from service after serving 26 years. He went to work at Fort Meade as a civilian where he worked for 18 years in the Transportation Motor Pool. Tommy had 46 years of Federal Service, which ended July 31, 1993.
Tommy was raised in the church and attended St. Matthews UMC, at an early age. He later joined St. Mark UMC, where he was a faithful member and served on the Usher Board. He is a member of the NAACP, lifetime member of Bates Alumni, a lifetime member of Chapter 9 Retired Enlisted Association of Baltimore, MD, and a member of The Temple Masonic in Washington, D.C. His hobbies were watching TV, working puzzles, and dancing. Tommy was very neat and everything had to be in its proper place. He has received many awards and certificates from his jobs.
Tommy leaves to cherish his memories one daughter, Lille Mae Smith of Annapolis, one son-in-law, Lyle Smith Sr., one brother, Woodrow Nick, two sisters, Annie Nick and Roberta Thompson, one sister-in-law, Frieda Nick, an adopted daughter, Portia Booth, a number of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Tommy also held a special place in his heart for his dear friend, Helen Gorham, who preceded him in death.
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