FORT ANN – S. Wayne Nichols, 88, of Fort Ann, died early Tuesday morning, July 30, 2024. Wayne passed away peacefully with his family at his side.
Born on September 11, 1935, in Saratoga Springs, he was the son of the late William G. and Edith (Morris) Nichols. Wayne attended Saratoga Springs High School, and in his junior year, he joined the Naval Reserve in Glens Falls. Upon completing high school, Wayne entered active duty with the Navy and manned the destroyer the U.S.S. Corry. While in the Navy, he served as an electrician’s Mate until his honorable discharge in 1956. This experience led to his career as an industrial electrician for the better part of his life.
In 1988, Wayne obtained the position of electrical maintenance supervisor at Wilton Developmental Center. While employed there, he met the love of his life, Linda, and the two spent many happy years together as husband and wife.
Wayne was also an accomplished musician as a drummer and played in many top area bands. His proudest moment was the opportunity to back the Amos Sisters from Nashville, TN. Wayne never turned down the opportunity to play a benefit to help those.
He is survived by his loving wife, Linda Nichols of Fort Ann; his son, Ronald Wayne Nichols (Tammy) of Wilton; his daughter, Tammy Simmons (Mark) of Ballston Spa; his step children, Kimberly Hartwell of Gansevoort, Tracey Gonyea (Joe) of Hudson Falls, Christopher Hartwell (Carmen) of Crocker, MO, and Thomas John Hartwell of Gansevoort; He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren and his cousin, Ray Nichols (Sara) of Saratoga Springs.
Friends may call from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 pm at the funeral home. Wayne will be laid to rest with military honors at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road, Schuylerville on Friday, August 16, 2024 at 1:30 pm.
Memorial donations may be made to the charity of one’s choice.