Doris Henrietta Nicholson

Doris Henrietta (Yoder) Nicholson, 95, died July 3, 2011, in Hancock, Massachusetts. She was predeceased by her husband John and her sister Ellie and is survived by her three children; John, Susan, Tom; eight grandchildren and four great grandchildren. She was born May 6, 1916 at home in Middlebury, and later moved to Goshen. She was baptized, confirmed and subsequently married at First English Lutheran Church to John Edward Nicholson Jr. whom she met while attending the University of Michigan. They had 38 wonderful years together until his untimely death. Her life changed in many ways as she moved from small town life in Indiana and Michigan to Eastchester (a suburb of New York City). They eventually settled down at their home at 5 Columbus Circle where she lived for nearly 50 years. During that time they built a second home in Hancock, Massachusetts. It was there that she spent the final months of her life. She died at home with family around her in a peaceful and painless death, the one she had always prayed for. Doris had a deep and abiding faith in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She was an example to all of the power of faith and dedicated herself to the work of serving others. A major goal of hers was to pass this faith on to her children and their children so that they might enjoy the Peace of God that passes all understanding. Doris gave of herself in many ways from the loving care of her family to Eastchester Beautification, Family Consultation, PTA's at all levels, the Wartburg Nursing Home, Redeemer Lutheran Church, and St. Paul's Church in Darien. When she saw a need she responded whether it was to a young boy, Kelby, who needed guidance, an Estonian refugee who needed some time out of New York City or her long time house mates Dixie and Meredith. She also loved to contribute to the life of the church through the music ministry. She sang in every choir of every church she belonged to and often took on the role of a substitute organist. She enjoyed travel throughout the United States as well as Europe, Finland, Russia, China, South Africa, Tobago and others. Whether with the family, in a group with Father Fullam or striking out with her cousin Lucille, she enjoyed the opportunity to see and experience the world. The family will receive friends 10 a.m. until the 11 a.m., Friday, July 8, 2011, funeral service at First English Lutheran Church in her home town of Goshen with interment in Violett Cemetery where she will be buried next to her husband John. A memorial service is planned for later at St. Paul's Church, Darien, Conn. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Hospice Care in The Berkshires, Inc. (www.hcib.org) or to a charity of your choice serving children. Yoder-Culp Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.