Edward A. Nichols, 76, of Milan, passed away on Monday, May 26, 2025, at UnityPoint Health-Trinity, Rock Island. Services for Mr. Nichols will be 10 am, Tuesday at the Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Milan. Visitation will be Monday from 4 pm to 7 pm at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Drury-Reynolds Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the family for a memorial fund that will be established at a later date.

Edward Allen Nichols, born November 8, 1948, in Moline, known as "Eddie" or "The Indian". Ed married Linda Dawson in 1967 in Cable, Illinois. He was a devoted father, grandfather, and friend. In Ed's earlier life, he was the drummer/singer in a band called Jimmy and the Road Runners and then The Road Crew. He was an avid Chicago Bears fan.

He was a man defined by his faith, tireless work ethic and the deep love for his family, especially. His grandchildren, who were truly the light of his life.

He spent much of his life behind the wheel of the dump truck he proudly owned. Jr. his father started The Nichols Trucking Company many years before.

Even after he retired a few years ago, he never slowed down when it came to being there for all the people he loved.

A proud Seventh Day Adventist, he lived his life with quite strength, integrity, and unwavering faith.

He was the proud father of three daughters, but his heart nearly burst with joy when his first few grandchildren were boys. After living in a house with all girls, having boys in his life made him so happy. He was more than a grandfather, he was a father figure, mentor, and role model to his grandchildren.

He taught them the value of hard work, honesty, and perseverance. He did not just love them, he adored them, pouring every ounce of his being into their lives. Proud does not even begin to cover what he felt for all his grandchildren

Survivors include his children, Angela (Ronald) Strong, Illinois City, Amy Nichols, Rock Island, and Wendy (Shawn) Harkey, Rock Island; grandchildren, Chase (Erica) Damewood, Adam (Taylor) Damewood, Chad Strong, Trae Nichols, Cearra Hickman, Tylynn Hickman, Veda (Hunter) Rossi, Jett (Jessica) Rossi, Elaina (Hunter) Bambauer, Kate (Cody) Jensen, Luc (Cassie) Harkey; great grandchildren, Jack, Cameron, Ryleigh, Caden, Khali; and a sister, Debra Whan.

Edward was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Brody Strong; and a sister, Kathy Reed.