James William Nicely

Nicely, James William

James William Nicely, 52, of Charlottesville, Virginia, died peacefully on November 2, 2017, after a courageous eight-month battle with pancreatic cancer.

James is survived by Patricia Regar Nicely, his loving wife of 27 years. He is also survived by his mother Dale Burger Nicely and her husband George Hancock of Hot Springs, VA, a brother Craig Nicely and his wife Leslie of Covington, VA, two sisters Lori Nicely and her wife Meghan Matulka of Rockville, MD and Elizabeth Kline and her husband Andy of Broadlands, VA and many loving in-laws, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father Ermon David Nicely.

James was born August 5, 1965, in Clifton Forge, VA. He was named James after his paternal grandfather and his middle name, William, honored his maternal grandfather. James graduated from Dabney S. Lancaster Community College in 1987 with a degree in Applied Sciences in Nursing. Following graduation, James moved to Roanoke and began his nursing career at the Cancer Center of Southwest Virginia. In 1989, James moved to Charlottesville and continued his nursing career with the University of Virginia Health System, where he would work for 28 rewarding years until shortly after his diagnosis.

In 1990, James married Patricia Regar in the University of Virginia chapel. James and Patricia shared a love of the beach and spent many happy vacations there. Throughout their married life, they never passed up the opportunity to visit Christmas shops and expand their extensive collection of Christmas decor. James and Patricia also shared a passion for Old English Sheepdogs. They were avid advocates and transport volunteers for the New England Old English Sheepdog Rescue. A succession of Old English Sheepdogs -- Tyler, Beethoven, Emma and Toby -- shared their home.

James had a strong Christian foundation with which to navigate his life. He spent many early childhood days on his grandparents’ country farm, and his grandmother Reba was an especially strong Christian influence. James loved Covenant Church of God, where he served in Childhood Ministry, Choir, Media, and as Drama Director for Fine Arts.

James’ compassion and caring touched many, including Patricia’s grateful parents. He had a passion for the arts, becoming an accomplished dancer and pianist. James wrote and produced many Christmas plays and dramas. Late in life, he fell in love with New York City and Broadway. James’ quick wit and zest for life were evident to all during his courageous fight with cancer. James died too young but left behind many grateful family members, friends, coworkers, and patients.

A memorial service with reception to follow is scheduled for 11:00 am on November 11, 2017, at Covenant Church of God, 1025 Rio Road East, Charlottesville. Pastor Harold Bare will be officiating. All are welcome to attend this celebration of James’ life.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations may be made to one of the following organizations: Covenant Church of God (fine arts department or building fund), 1025 Rio Road East, Charlottesville, VA 22901; Charlottesville-Albemarle SPCA, 3355 Berkmar Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22901; or Hospice of the Piedmont, 675 Peter Jefferson Parkway, Suite 300, Charlottesville, VA 22911.