Judith Nicklos Obituary

Judith Ann Holke Nicklos
08/30/1940 - 01/22/2025
It is with great sadness that the family of Judith Ann Holke Nicklos of Houston, Texas announces her unexpected passing on January 22, 2025, leaving a legacy of love, strength and generosity. Born on August 30, 1940, in Houston, Judy was the daughter of the late William and Anna Belle Moursund Holke. She remained a vibrant presence in the lives of her loved ones until the end. Judy is survived by her devoted and beloved husband of 30 years, Jim Nicklos. She is also lovingly remembered by her son John Chandler (Sharon) and grandsons Brandon and Cole; daughter Chelsea Molina (Ed) and grandchildren Beckett and Hadley; son Matthew Nicklos (Kristin) and grandchildren Marcella and Gus; daughter Sara McGlathery and grandchildren Isabel and Andrew; and grandchildren Dylan Kipp and Duncan Kipp. She is preceded in death by her daughter, Adrianne Atchley Kipp.
Judy was a graduate of Lamar High School and broke barriers as one of three women that graduated with a Chemical Engineering degree Cum Laude from Vanderbilt University as a Pi Beta Phi. Her intelligence, determination, and perseverance carried her through an exceptional 25-year career as a Certified Professional Engineer with Control Data, where she excelled in a field dominated by men.
Judy's dedication to her community was unwavering. She volunteered her time and talents to several Houston-area philanthropies, including Texas Children's Hospital library, Stages Theatre, Assistance League of Houston, Yellowstone Academy and many others. Her selflessness and commitment to service left a lasting impact on many lives, especially children, and she will be remembered as a woman who gave freely of her time and energy.
Judy's three decades with her loving husband Jim Nicklos were filled with partnership and joy. Together, they created a blended family filled with love, laughter, and support. Jim brought steadfast and unending devotion and care to Judy throughout their life together, particularly during her decade-long battle with Alzheimer's, ensuring she lived with dignity, fun and comfort. Their bond was a testament to the power of enduring love.
Judy and Jim shared a love for exploring the world and discovering new cultures. From European cities to Africa to South America, their travels gave them a lifetime of treasured memories. Judy and Jim also delighted in planning family trips filled with good food, games, and relaxation. The family will always fondly remember gatherings at the beach, rivers, and the family houses at Camp Creek Lake and Concan, Texas, where Judy's love and cooking brought everyone closer together.
Despite her diagnosis, Judy faced Alzheimer's with grace, resilience, and a fighting spirit. Her strength through this difficult journey was an inspiration to her family and friends, who were unwavering in their support. Judy's life story-marked by accomplishments, love, and service-is a powerful reminder of the importance of cherishing each moment and embracing life's challenges with courage. Judy's family is especially grateful to Ana Marie Fuentes for the loving care and support she provided to both Judy and Jim during this journey.
The family invites all who loved Judy to join in celebrating her incredible life. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at eleven o'clock in the morning at St. Paul's United Methodist Church, 5501 Main Street in Houston. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Judy's honor to Stages Theatre, Texas Children's Library, or a charity of your choice. Judy's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, and her remarkable legacy will continue to inspire future generations.