Alvin C. Nicholas

Alvin Cornelius Nicholas, affectionately known as “Alvin” or “Nick”, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family, on Sunday, September 20, 2026, at the age of 77.

Alvin was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather-to-be, brother, uncle, proud veteran, faithful friend, and a man whose kindness touched countless lives. He will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved him.

Alvin was born on June 3, 1949, in Dinwiddie, Virginia, to the late James Thomas Nicholas, Sr. and Louella Gholson Nicholas. His spiritual journey began at an early age when he was baptized at First Baptist Church, West Petersburg, under the leadership of the late Rev. C. L. Robinson.

A member of First Baptist Church, West Petersburg, Alvin served and worked within the church for more than 25 years. Throughout his years of service, he served as an usher and as sexton for 15 years. Drawing upon his professional experiences as a purchasing agent he was also responsible for purchasing supplies and picking up mail and packages for the church.

Alvin was educated in the Dinwiddie County Public School system. Following his education, he joined the United States army where he earned his GED. He proudly served his country during the Vietnam War, earning numerous awards and accommodations in recognition for his military service.

Following his service in the Army, Alvin attended Brightpoint Community College, formerly known as John Tyler Community College. It was during this chapter of his life that his aunt Rebecca “Bea” Nicholas, introduced him to a nice young lady and encouraged him to offer her a ride to and from school. What began as a simple introduction and ride would eventually become a beautiful love story, as that young lady, would later become his wife and life partner of nearly five decades.

In 1977, Alvin began his career with the City of Petersburg in the Purchasing Department at Petersburg City Hall. During his career, he served as a stock clerk and mail clerk and became a familiar and dependable presence throughout the City. After many years of dedicated service, Alvin retired in 2011. However, retirement did not last long. After being away from work for only one month, he returned to the Purchasing Department of City of Petersburg on a part-time basis and continued working until July 2026 due to his decline in health. In total he was employed with the City of Petersburg for 49 years. His decades of service reflected his strong work ethic, loyalty and commitment to the community he served.

Alvin was also a proud member of Mount Nebo Lodge No. 43 Prince Hall Masons.

Outside of his work and service, Alvin enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. His family was at the center of his life, and he took great pride in being a husband, father, and grandfather. His children, Neil and Yannette, and his granddaughter, DyMun, held a very special place in his heart. He loved them deeply, celebrated their accomplishments, supported them through every season of life, and cherished the time they spent together. The love he had for his family was evident in the way he cared for them, encouraged them, and remained a steady presence in their lives. His hobbies included playing the lottery, watching The Big Bang Theory, fishing and watching westerns with his brother Norman, and listening to jazz music. He was also an avid NASCAR Cup Series fan. His longtime favorite driver was Jimmie Johnson, No. 48, and in more recent years, he enjoyed cheering for Ryan Blaney, No. 12.

Alvin took great pride in keeping his cars clean and looking their best. He also loved taking an occasional drive, enjoying the open road while listening to his jazz music. These quiet moments, along with time spent with family and friends, were among the many things that brought him joy.

Alvin was preceded in death by his parents, James Thomas Nicholas, Sr. and Louella Gholson Nicholas; his siblings, James “Jimmy” Nicholas, Jr., Eudell Nicholas, and Norman Nicholas; and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Hampton Mason, Sr. and Alice Mason.

He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife of 46 years, Deacon Velma Nicholas; his cherished children, Alvin “Neil” Nicholas II (Sheila) and Yannette “Yannie” Nicholas; his adored granddaughter, DyMun Nicholas; his dedicated siblings, Albert Nicholas, and Arlene Williams; sisters-in-law, Barbara Henderson, Vera Prentis, Marie Parham, Brenda Mason, Patricia Manson (Roy) and Deborah Mason; brother-in-law, Hampton Mason, Jr.; and grandmother-in-law, Estelle Prentis.

He is also lovingly remembered by a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends, including his dear friends, Mr. Wayne Talley, Dr. Norma Newman and his co-workers from the City of Petersburg and the Voter Registration Office.

The family extends heartfelt appreciation to the staff of Richmond VA Medical Center, Crater Community Hospice, especially nurses Yvonne Stanford and Crystal Coltes, First Baptist Church West Petersburg, and the entire West Petersburg Community for the care, compassion, prayers, love, and support shown to him and his family.

Alvin’s gentle spirit, caring heart, quiet strength, and dedication to his family will remain a lasting part of his legacy. His presence will be deeply missed, but the memories, lessons, love, and laughter he shared will continue to live in the hearts of those blessed to have known him.

A memorial service will be held 2:00 P.M., Friday, October 2, 2026, at First Baptist Church, 25720 Greensville Avenue, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Kevin Chung, Pastor-Elect, the Rev. Dr. Horace B. Parham, Jr., eulogist, the Rev. Michael A. Spragley, officiant.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page or click here to view: https://vimeo.com/event/6233850?fl=so&fe=fs