Derek J. Nichols, 27

July 26, 2011

A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. on July 31 at the family home, 9122 Deer Valley Road, in Newport, for Derek J. Nichols, who passed away at his home on July 21, 2011, with his mother by his side.
Born on Jan. 28, 1984, in Missoula Mont., he was a kind hearted and loving person who battled cancer and its effects from the age of 8 until his final day.
He loved being with his family, pets and his friends at the Newport Clubhouse. He also enjoyed playing board games, word finds, shopping and spending time outside especially in his swing.
Derek was preceded in death by his father, David; and his grandfather Ed.
He is survived by his mother and father, Debbie and Gary Smith; one brother, Cameron Smith; one sister, Jamie (Tim) Hart; a nephew, Taegen Hart; his grandparents, Irvin and Genny Smith, Jean Nichols, Don and Sherril Christian; aunts and uncles, Donna and Dana Sprague, Eddie Nichols, Roger and Mary Smith, and Mark and Gretta Christian; and numerous cousins and extended family.
Sherman-Knapp Funeral Home in Newport is in charge of arrangements.
Family and friends are invited to sign the online guest book at sherman-knapp.com.