Bernadette Nickles

Tuesday, June 21, 2016

Bernadette "Lafaye" Nickles, 66, of Luxora, died June 18, 2016 in her residence. Born April 19, 1950 in Chicago, she was a retired teacher and a member of New Salem Missionary Baptist Church for 50 years, where she served as church treasurer and secretary. She was also a former secretary for the City of Luxora.

She was preceded by her parents, Roosevelt Gathen, Sr. and Essie Mae Spencer Gathen, husband Lievant "Lieutenant" Nickles, and brother Roosevelt Gathen, Jr.

Mrs. Nickles leaves one daughter, Tawanda (Robert) McKenzie of Lubbock, Texas;

One son, Deon (Bonnie) Nickles of Luxora;

Two sisters, Patricia Hooks and Gail Smith, both of Luxora;

Three brothers, LeTroy Gathen of Blytheville, Thomas Gathen of McGhee, and Frankie Gathen of Osceola;

Eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

The family will receive visitors from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, June 24 at the Wilson Funeral Home of Osceola. Funeral services, officiated by Rev. McArthur Hampton, will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 25 at New Salem Missionary Baptist Church of Luxora. Burial will follow at Luxora Cemetery.