Rebecca Helton Nicholson

Rebecca Helton Nicholson, 88, of Asheville, passed away Thursday, August 2, 2018. Born July 29, 1930 in Buncombe Co., Rebecca was raised at the Eliada Home for Children. After graduating from Emma High School, she attended the Mission School of Nursing, where she became a registered nurse in 1953. She loved nursing and worked for Mission Hospital, St. Joseph Hospital, and Aston Park Hospital. She retired from nursing after 38 years. She was an active charter member of the Mission Belles Alumni, and has been a member of West Asheville Baptist Church since 1953. Surviving are her devoted husband of 64 years, John H. Nicholson of Swannanoa; she is also survived and loved dearly by her children, John Nicholson, Jr. (Julie) of Black Mountain, Susie Miller (Wes) of Asheville, and Kaye Roberts of Fairview; grandchildren, Chip Pennell (Jennifer) of Harrisburg, NC, Nick Roberts (Jenny) of Horse Shoe, NC, Amanda Miller of Fletcher, Chris Roberts (Kayla) of Weaverville, and Wesley Miller of New York City; great-grandchildren, Nicholas Roberts, Jackson Roberts, Beckett Pennell, Owen Roberts, and Easton Roberts; and nephew, Joe Long (Loretta) of Claremore, OK. The family wishes to express special thanks to the Brian Center of Weaverville, and to the John F. Keever Solace Center. Funeral services for Mrs. Nicholson will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday in the Patton Avenue chapel of Groce Funeral Home, with the Rev. Dr. Stan Welch and Pastor Rich Tuttle officiating. Interment will follow at Green Hills Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.