Jefferson Stephen Nichols, affectionately known as "Popa," was a beloved grandfather and father during his incredible 87 years of life. He passed away peacefully in the afternoon of February 1, 2025.

Jefferson had a long and full life. He was born on April 1,1937 in Waco, Texas to two loving parents, Mitchell Glenn and Sarah Delia Nichols. Jefferson had two older siblings, Mitchell and Veneta. He moved to Tampa, Florida with his family when he was a young boy, where he attended Sulphur Springs Grade School and graduated from Hillsborough High School in 1955.

After high school, Jefferson made ends meet by drywalling and painting, which he became known for. He continued to do both for his church, family, and friends as often as the opportunity presented itself. He began working for Frito Lay in 1962 as a sales representative. He made deliveries in what was known by many as "the chip truck" all over the Tampa Bay area. He spent the majority of his tenure at Frito Lay delivering and managing all things Frito Lay at the MacDill Airforce Base.

He was a lover of all Frito Lay products—salty and sweet alike. He worked for the company for over 37 years. In 1967, Jefferson met his former spouse Judith through mutual friends. They attended Sulphur Springs Church of God, where they were married on October 10, 1968. Jefferson and Judith established a beautiful, blended family. Jefferson, Judith, and Jefferson's stepsons Richard, Kevin, and Kenny lived in Thonotosassa, and in 1969 they welcomed their daughter Ronda. As a family they enjoyed taking camping trips, attending sporting events, and cooking for family and friends. Jefferson was a devoted father who enjoyed attending and supporting all sports activities and hobbies for his stepsons, and was a favorite chaperone for his daughter Ronda's band competitions and proud member of the band boosters.

Jefferson was a proud grandfather. He lived close by to his grandsons, Adam and Jacob, and made treasured memories with them. He especially looked forward to his lunch dates with Adam, and to watching Florida Gator games with Jacob. He often spent weekends with his daughter Ronda, Ronda's husband Mark, and his grandsons, watching sports, enjoying Southern cooking, and chatting with his family.

Jefferson will be remembered as a humble and selfless person who lived for his family. More than anything, he valued their health and happiness. Jefferson was a warm and loving person who cultivated close friendships and was involved in his community. He enjoyed a good game of golf and barbecuing for his friends and family. He was witty, had a great sense of humor, loved a good dessert, and was always willing to lend helping hand. He doted on his daughter, Ronda, and his grandsons, Jacob and Adam, never letting a moment pass without telling them how much he loved them.

Jefferson is survived by his daughter Ronda (Mark), stepsons Richard (Linda), Kevin (Robin), and Kenny (Anita), niece Claudia, grandson Adam, grandson Jacob (Veronica), and other beloved family members and friends. He will live on in our hearts forever.