Jason Gentry Nichols

Jason Gentry Nichols, age 61, of Franklin, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 30th, 2025, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, surrounded by those who loved him dearly. Born on March 21st, 1964, Jason’s life was a tapestry of family, adventure, achievement, and unwavering devotion to others.

Jason was the beloved partner of Marta McClanahan and a proud and loving father to his son, Andy Nichols, and daughter, Emma Nichols. He is also survived by his father, Jimmy Nichols; stepmother, Dianne Nichols; brother, Jeffrey Nichols (Roberta); niece, Morgan Heckman (Alex); and nephew, Joe Nichols. He was preceded in death by his mother, Joyce Lyell; stepfather, Ray Lyell; and grandparents, William and Edna Gentry, and Pat and Emma Nichols.

Voted “Most Likely to Succeed” by his class at Franklin Junior High School, Jason went on to graduate from Brentwood Academy in 1982, where he ran hurdles as a member of the two-time state champion Track and Field team. He graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science from Middle Tennessee State University, followed by an MBA from the Owen School of Business at Vanderbilt University.

Jason’s love of travel and adventure enriched his life and those who journeyed with him. His adventurous spirit saw him climb Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, trek to Mt. Everest Base Camp, and live the island life at Never Winter Playa in Roatán, Honduras—all with his best friend, Jeff McKinney. He also enjoyed traveling the world with his partner, Marta, including trips to Alaska, Germany, Greece, Italy, Montenegro, Croatia, Denmark, Switzerland, Sweden, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, and more, as well as many places here in the States.

A highly skilled and passionate team roper, Jason won multiple roping competitions, embodying the values of hard work, focus, and camaraderie that defined his life. He spent countless hours on horseback and roping—mostly with his father, Jimmy—and developed a close-knit circle of friends in the roping community.

Jason was also an enthusiastic coach of youth basketball and baseball, including coaching Andy’s and Emma’s teams. He impacted the lives of countless young people in Middle Tennessee with his encouragement and genuine interest in helping them grow not just as athletes, but as individuals.

Jason also loved “projects” of any kind. Whether it was fixing up his old Jeep, working with concrete, electrical, plumbing, computers, carpentry, and more, he could do it all—most of the time with his lifelong buddy, Tommy McGee.

As a big brother, Jason was both a protector and a best friend to Jeffrey. Together, they shared countless hours playing basketball and softball, going to concerts and music festivals, and cheering on the Titans—adventures filled with laughter, music, and the joy of being side by side. Their bond was one of loyalty and deep affection, a connection that will always live on in Jeffrey’s heart.

But most of all, Jason loved his kids. His life revolved around them, and he cherished every moment spent with them. They were the most important part of his life. He loved riding horses and roping with Emma, going to Titans and UT games with Andy, traveling with them to places like London, Paris, New York, and the Bahamas—or simply hanging out together.

Jason’s true legacy is defined not only by his achievements but by his steadfast selflessness, generosity, and loyalty. He was a devoted father, partner, brother, son, and friend—always willing to put the needs of others before his own. Friends and family relied on his caring presence, his patient ear, and his supportive advice. In remembering Jason, we celebrate a man whose impact was felt through his strength and kindness. His legacy of love, hard work, and giving will live in the hearts of all who were lucky to know him.

A Celebration of Life Service will be Sunday, September 7, 2025 at Williamson Memorial Funeral Home. Visitation will be 3:00PM – 8:00PM on Saturday and 11:00AM until 1:00PM prior to the service on Sunday at the funeral home. Honorary pallbearers include his children, Andy and Emma Nichols; his brother, Jeffrey Nichols; and friends Jeff McKinney, Tommy McGee, Lee Pedigo, Cris Perkins, Mark McKinney, Bobby Brooks, Bryan Derryberry, and all his roping community. To celebrate Jason, feel free to wear your Vols and Titans gear or cowboy boots and hats.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX.

WILLIAMSON MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME, 615 794-2289 www.williamsonmemorial.com