Donna Lee Nichols

Donna Lee Nichols, 86, of Ridgeway, Virginia, transitioned from her earthly life Tuesday, September 2, 2025. She was born July 22, 1939, in Waco, Texas, to the late Charles Wesley Carpenter and Rosa Lee Chadwick Carpenter.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, William E. Nichols; daughter, Dodie Rene Richardson and brothers, Thomas Carpenter and Charles Carpenter.

Donna was a spunky, feisty woman who loved her family greatly. She went above and beyond when she cooked for everyone’s specific favorites. After graduating from high school, she attended beauty school but eventually found her true calling as a dog groomer. She started her own business, The Poodle Patch, where she pampered dogs for nearly 40 years. With unmatched energy, she could run laps around everyone. Her delicious home-cooked meals were a huge hit when friends and family gathered. Whether cooking or watching her favorite football team, the Cowboys, she was a joy to be around, and her life made an impact on all who knew her.

She is survived by a host of loved ones who will forever cherish her memory: a daughter, Venetia Clemons (Carl Clemons, deceased); sons, Eric Nichols (Patricia), Boby Joe Nichols; sisters, Pat Turner, Sherry Gorsuch; grandchildren, Nacole Gusler, Regina Dickenson; great-grandchildren, Kayla Henley, Kyleigh Gusler, Nathaniel Gusler, Keelan Goolsby, and Emma Nichols.

Pallbearers will be Eric Nichols, Brian Taylor, Teyon Johnson, Lano Johnson, Trey Robertson, and Nathaniel Gusler.

A funeral will be held Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Wright Funeral Service Chapel, with Pastor Eugene Robertson officiating. Interment will follow at Horsepasture Christian Church Cemetery, located at 1146 Horsepasture Price Road, Ridgeway, Virginia. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.

Wright Funeral Service & Crematory is serving the family. Online condolences may be made at www.wrightfuneralservices.net.