Ray Benard Nichols, 80, of Burlington, formerly of Drake and Harvey, died Saturday August 29, 2015 in a Minot nursing home.

Ray was born April 24, 1935 in Philadelphia, Mississippi, son of Robbie W. and Tressie (Mirrick) Nichols. After completion of high school Ray entered into active duty with the U.S. Marine Corps and honorably served his country in the Korean War.

Ray was recommended for re-enlistment after receiving his honorable discharge from the Marine Corps in 1957. Ray then re-enlisted with U.S. Army and honorably served his country for 21 years as a military police officer. He completed his duty in 1978.

Ray was once married to Betty Jean and Helen Geraldine Nichols. He was also married to Carol Jean (Noel) Nichols from 1995-2007. Throughout the years he has made his home in Las Vegas, Gulfport, MS, and Texas. He then moved to North Dakota, where he did security service work at the Minot Air Force Base. He had lived in Harvey, Drake, and most recently Burlington.

Ray enjoyed gardening, hunting, fishing, along with Steven Seagal and John Wayne movies. He loved a good game of Pinochle, watching football, and WWE Wrestling.

His loving family includes, his sons, Johnny (Jennifer) Nichols, Minot; Mark Nichols, Florida; daughter, Jacquelyn Elton, Drake; Grandchildren: Isabella Nichols, Edward Elton, Starlet Kaisler, Jade Kaisler, Anthony Kaisler, Matthew Kaisler, Angelica Kaisler and Patrick Elton; 2 brothers and a niece.

A private family service was held in Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.

Honoring his request, his body will be donated to the Anatomical Donation Program at UND in Grand Forks, ND.