Ken Nichols

The Nichols Hardware Family has been providing high-quality hardware and tools to our community in Loudoun County Virginia for generations.   We pride ourselves on our knowledgeable staff and excellent customer care.  

It is with great sadness we share the loss of   

Kenneth Evans Nichols 

Kenneth Evans Nichols, 94, passed away peacefully in his sleep on June 24, 2024 after several years of declining health. Ken was a life-long resident of Purcellville, VA, having been born there in a house on Main Street on March 20, 1930. Ken’s passion was working at Nichols Hardware, a business founded in 1914 by his father Edward E. Nichols, Sr. Ken began working there after school as a child in elementary school and became a full-time employee (and part-owner) after graduating from Fishburne Military School in 1948. He and his brother, Edward Jr., eventually obtained full ownership of the business from their father. Ken was never happier than when he was at “the store” and he continued to work there until his health issues forced him to stop at the age of 89.

Ken spent 9 years in the late 1940’s and 1950’s serving his country as a “part-time sailor” in the Aviation Supply Division of the Naval Air Reserve. He was also active in founding the Purcellville Business Association and received its “Member of the Year” award in 1985.

He was predeceased by his parents, Edward Sr. and Sarah (nee Leach) Nichols, his beloved wife of 46 years, Frances (nee Shiley) Nichols, and all of his siblings and their spouses: Edward Jr. and Meg Nichols, Milton and Ruth Nichols, and Frances Annie and Bart Hendrickson.

Survivors include his son, Donald (Valerie Campbell), grandson Geoffrey (Shania Ripken), and great-granddaughter Sophia Ripken – all of whom reside in the Hillsboro area. Other survivors include his sister-in-law Pauline DeHaven of Winchester and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services and burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Humane Society of Loudoun County.

We carry a wide range of hardware and tools, including plumbing supplies, electrical equipment, gardening tools, and more. Our products are sourced from top manufacturers to ensure quality and durability.

In addition to selling hardware and tools, we also offer repair and maintenance services for various equipment. Our skilled technicians have years of experience and can handle any repair job.