Neil S. Nichols, 84 of Maroa, IL passed away 5:55 AM February 8, 2026 at HSHS St. John’s Hospital, Springfield, IL.

Services will be 11 AM Saturday, February 28, 2026 at Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, IL with Rev. Julie Dowler officiating. Visitation will be 10 – 11 AM Saturday at the funeral home.

Neil was born November 8, 1941 in Marshalltown, IA the son of Stacy and Frances (Stewart) Nichols, Jr. He married Norma Sprague August 6, 1967 in Clinton, IL.

Neil graduated from Eastern Illinois University in 1966 and then worked for Equitable Life. In 1971 he joined Charles Sprague and P.A. Sprague in their farming operations. He had trekked across Europe, Africa, Central American and the Amazon. He was a Boy Scout Leader in Maroa for many years. Neil enjoyed hunting & fishing especially in Canada, boating, camping and spending time with his family and friends.  

Survivors include his wife, Norma Nichols, Maroa, IL; son, Christopher (Jeff Hanover) Nichols, Normal, IL; “special son”, Aaron Kennedy, Clinton, IL; “special grandson”, Benjamin Kennedy, Herrick, IL; “special great grandson”, Eli Kennedy; special nieces, Julie (Scott) Kelly, Clinton, IL, Jennifer (Tony) Rhodes, Clinton, IL; brother, Lyle (Jan) Nichols, Quincy, IL; sister-in-law, Nancy Sprague, Clinton, IL, along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Nancy Lindstrom; brother, Stanley Nichols; sister, Janet Nichols; brother-in-law, Charles Sprague; and sister-in-law, Janice Sprague.

Memorials may be directed to Maroa United Methodist Church, Weldon Springs Foundation, or DeWitt County Animal Shelter.

The family would like to express a special “Thank You” to the Maroa Fire Dept. and David Strain for all their help.

Online condolences may be made at www.calvertmemorial.com