Rory Nicholson

COOKEVILLE CHAPEL - Rory Blake Nicholson, who was born on July 18, 1956, in Shreveport, Louisiana, and passed away on Saturday November 7, 2026, in Cookeville, Tennessee, after a long battle with cancer, lived a life marked by service, strength, and devotion to his family and others.

He was the beloved husband of Colleen Nicholson and a devoted father to Amy Clark and her partner Brian Flanagan, Alan Nicholson and his wife Melissa, and Stephen Nicholson and his wife Kristen. He was a proud grandfather to Marissa and Mathew Clark, Preslee, Kaiden, and Liam Nicholson, and Alura Looney. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Ivy Nicholson, along with many extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

In keeping with many in his family, Rory served his country as a veteran in the United States Army. His sense of duty and discipline remained with him throughout his life, and those who knew him recognized the quiet strength and steady character that came from his years of service. He carried himself with dignity and was respected for the example he set through both his words and his actions.

Rory spent more than 28 years of dedicated service as a plant manager at Matheson Trigas in Odessa, Texas, where he was known for his strong work ethic, leadership, and reliability. After retiring from Matheson Trigas, he continued to work at Northrop Grumman in Newport News, Virginia. Following his second retirement, he and Colleen made their home in Tennessee, where they enjoyed a new chapter together surrounded by family and the peace of their chosen home.

He was always helpful to people in need and was the kind of man who could be counted on when others were facing hardship. Rory taught his family the importance of respect, discipline, and how to be a good person, lessons that will continue to guide his family for generations. He was selfless in the way he cared for others and wise in the way he lived his life, offering encouragement, practical help, and steady support to those around him.

Rory was also a fighter, and he faced several health struggles with courage and determination. Even in difficult times, he met each challenge with resilience and grace. His strength inspired those who loved him, and his perseverance was a reflection of the deep character that defined his life.

A memorial service with military honors will be at 1 p.m. Saturday November 14 at the Cookeville Chapel of Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home (59 N Jefferson Ave). Bro. Jim McAfee will officiate. Visitation for friends and family will be from 11 a.m. until the start of the service at 1 p.m.

Rory will be remembered for his devotion to his wife, his love for his children and grandchildren, his service to his country, and the many ways he made life better for the people around him. His family and friends will hold close the memory of his kindness, his wisdom, and his unwavering presence. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy of love, service, and integrity will live on in all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111 Share condolences and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com