Marilyn Ann Nichols, 89, died Tuesday evening, October 21, 2025 at Brookdale Senior Living in Zanesville, Ohio.

Born November 3, 1935, she was a daughter of the late John Ernest and Edith A. (Cline) Mattingly and a 1953 graduate of Jefferson High School. Marilyn enjoyed gardening and canning the foods she grew, sewing, and keeping in contact with friends and family. She was a faithful member of St. Ann Catholic Church.

Surviving are four children, Mike (Cathy) Nichols of Dresden, Mark (Mitzi) Nichols of Dresden, Lisa (Tony) Anders of Zanesville, and Marsha Nichols of Nashport; seven grandchildren, Sara, Michael, Megan, Amanda, Teddy, Kimberly and Abby; sixteen great grandchildren, Kylee, Ali, Colt, Cayden, Aaron, Brynleigh, Josephine, Hadlie, Wyatt, Lily, Aaden, Everly, Raelynn, Riley, Ryder, and Ansley; a brother, Charles E. Mattingly; very special niece, Sherrie (Keith) Grubb; and nephew, Sam (Luann) Sheets.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband, William "Don" Donald Nichols whom she married April 7, 1956 and who died June 3, 2025; a daughter, Karen Nichols; a sister, Clara Jane Mattingly; a son in law, Gary Wilson.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Genesis Hospice-Morrison House, 713 Forest Avenue, Zanesville, Ohio 43701 or your favorite charity.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Brookdale Senior Living and Genesis-Hospice for the care they provide for Marilyn and the family.

Family and friends may visit from 1pm to 4pm, Sunday, October 26, 2025 at the Dresden Chapel of Vensil & Chute Funeral Home, 714 Main Street.

A funeral mass will be held at 10:30am, Monday, October 27, 2025, at St. Ann Catholic Church, 405 Chestnut Street, Dresden, OH 43821, with Reverend Father Martin Ralko officiating.

Marilyn will be laid to rest beside her husband, Don, at Dresden Cemetery.