Raymond Nicholson, age 70, was a beloved father, son, brother, uncle, and friend.  His children and family were the center of his life.  His smile and laugh we all enjoyed.  Though his loss will cause us much deep sadness, his love for family will not be forgotten.

Raymond was born on April 19, 1953, in Enfield, NC and was the 4th of 12 children to Leslie Leroy Nicholson and Beatrice Solomon Nicholson. He received his education through attending the Halifax County Public School System. After graduating from the public school system, Raymond went on to learn the art of cooking and became an excellent cook. At family gatherings, he would come in a close second behind our mother's cooking.  Over the years, we all came to love his collards, cabbage, and those chitterlings. Throughout his life, Raymond demonstrated just how much he loved his family and friends.  He would give his last to help someone else. He truly lived up to giving unto others.

He is preceded in death by his father, Leslie Leroy Nicholson; sister, Savannah Nicholson; brother, Jesse Lee Nicholson; and sister, Phyllis "Faye" Williams.

Raymond is survived by his adopted sons, Joshua Nicholson of Rocky Mount, NC, Anthony Nicholson, of Durham, NC, and Antonio Nicholson, of Durham, NC; his mother, Beatrice Solomon Nicholson of Enfield, NC; three sisters, Gloria Coppage of Rocky Mount, NC, Gwen Nicholson of Clayton, NC, and Garlinda Garris (Malcolm) of Enfield, NC;  five brothers, Leslie Leroy Jr. (Nora) of Enfield, NC, Ken (Linda) of Wake Forest, NC, Robert (Gwen) of Upper Marlboro, MD, Phillip (Ernestine) of Upper Marlboro, MD, and Shelton Tyrone (Marilyn) of Garner, NC. He is also survived by others who loved him, Hazel and Kesha of Enfield, NC; 7 Foster and adopted sons residing in Ohio and NC; and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

A Funeral Service was held on Saturday, February 10, 2024 at 11:00 am at the Lea and Pope Funeral Home Chapel, 215 S. McDaniel Street, Enfield, North Carolina. Burial will follow in the Enfield Memorial Cemetery, 208 Meyer Street, Enfield, North Carolina. A Public Viewing will be held one hour prior to the funeral service from 10:00 am – 11:00 am. Arrangements are being handled by Lea and Pope Funeral Home, Enfield, North Carolina. Send condolences to www.leapopefuneralhome.com.