Jerald Keith Nickels, 83, of Perkins, Oklahoma, passed away surrounded by the memories of a life well lived. He was born on September 1, 1942, in Stillwater, Oklahoma, to J.T. “Mack” Nickels and Kathryn Lodiene (Kirby) Nickels.

A service honoring the life of Jerald Keith Nickels will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Eden Chapel United Methodist Church in Perkins, Oklahoma, with Reverend Michael Brannon officiating.

Jerald attended Stillwater High School before continuing his education at Oklahoma State University, where he earned his master’s degree. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy.

Following his education and military service, Jerald built a career as an agronomist. Throughout his life, he was known for his many talents and interests. He especially enjoyed woodworking and knife making, crafts that reflected his patience, creativity, and skill.

On October 18, 1968, Jerald married the love of his life, Irene Janet Flanders, in Pensacola, Florida. Together, they shared many years of marriage and built a loving family.

Jerald was preceded in death by his parents, J.T. “Mack” Nickels and Kathryn Lodiene (Kirby) Nickels, and his brother, Kirby Lynn Nickels.

Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife, Irene J. Nickels; his son, Corey Keith Nickels and daughter-in-law, Annette Nickels; his grandson, Lance Gazaway; his granddaughter, Anna Slavens and her husband, Mike Slavens; and his great-grandchildren, Caleb Gazaway and his wife, Skye, and Zander Gazaway.