David Nicholas

David Nicholas, 58, died at his home on November 14th, 2024 after a lifelong struggle with treatment-resistant depression. David lived, and felt, with intensity and unflinching honesty. These qualities marked both his life and his decision to end it.

David was born in Roanoke, Virginia on January 4th, 1966 but grew up primarily in Bridgewater, Virginia. He attended Turner Ashby High School, where he played varsity football and excelled in track and field, competing at the state championship in shot put. David then studied business and economics at Bridgewater College, later trained as an accountant at James Madison University, and ultimately returned to Bridgewater College as a bursar for most of his career. Though he took pride in guiding students through their financial decisions, David was happiest when his hands were dirty.

David could dismantle a car and fit the pieces back together (and it would usually still run). He could tell you something new about most things in the woods. And he loved a good tomato, particularly if he grew it himself.

David was playful, and his snicker accompanied countless pranks. He was unpretentious and uninhibited by judgment. He adored horror movies, roller coasters, and driving fast, although nothing thrilled him more than a good deal. He idolized grunge singers and classic rock guitarists because they expressed what he sometimes couldn't. His resilience was remarkable.

Above all, David was kind.

David was a son of Carlyle and Winifred Nicholas, who was his anchor. He is survived by his son, Jonathan, his ex-wife Kajsa, and his siblings Lynne, Andy, and Allan. David was preceded in death by his parents and his daughter, Emma, who was his kindred spirit.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation (https://bbrfoundation.org/donate) in his memory.

A celebration of David's life will be held in the spring, with details to be announced.