John Vaughan Nicholson
May 09, 1942 - April 27, 2025
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Obituary for John Vaughan Nicholson
John Vaughan Nicholson, of Quincy, passed away at home surrounded by his family on Sunday, April 27, 2025. Born in Dorchester, MA, John was the son of the late Sir. Henry J. Nicholson and Johannah V. Nicholson.
Beloved husband of Ruthe M. (Yakavonis) Nicholson of 44 years. Loving father to Jill V. Nicholson of Falmouth. Devoted brother of Ann V. Nicholson of Dorchester and the late Mary Jane “Mimi” Nicholson Jones. Cherished Godfather to Catherine B. Jones of NYC.
A devout Catholic, John had a profound faith in God. He had a passion for sailing and sailed extensively through the years up the coast of Maine, down to Bermuda, throughout the Caribbean, Cape Cod and the Islands. John especially enjoyed spending time on his wooden sailboat, Sir Henry, named after his father who was knighted by the King of Norway.
A carpenter by trade, John had a profound appreciation for building, architecture and restoration of homes. He was an avid reader and had intense interest in history/politics. John was known for his storytelling which captured the attention and laughter of his family and many longtime friends.
As we remember John, we celebrate a life filled with humility. In honor of John’s memory, let us hold close the lessons he taught. As one dear friend wrote: “Classic John, he’s the most decent, thoughtful, honest, kindest, generous man that ever lived- We are all blessed to have him in our life. We will miss dearly.”
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Saint Gregory Church, 2215 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester, Thursday, May 1 at 11:00AM. Relatives and friends invited. Visiting hours at the Dolan Funeral Home, 460 Granite Ave. EAST MILTON, Thursday, 9:00-10:30am. Interment private.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN, 38105. www.stjude.org
Services
Visitation
09:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Funeral Mass
11:00 AM - 12:00 AM
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Condolences
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May 01, 2025
Ann, I was saddened when I saw John's obituary, even tho it has been many years since John, you, Mimi, myself, and my brother Arthur spent our halcyon days in Milton. I also fondly remember your elegant mother , and charming father. I hope you are well. We are all well, tho slowed down considerably. Thinking of you, deepest sympathy, Janet Burke Greene
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May 01, 2025
Ruthe, Jill and Anne, Your Captain John was a long time Dearest Friend. Humble Architect and lone carpenter of many rooms, including an extension to my home so many years ago, teaching me that simple decor will endure the test of time. He did have a little help, though, when his Father, Sir Henry, helped him put a large holding beam in my kitchen. The memory of his smiling face and all his kindnesses to me, need no tests. His gentle, smiling face and good humor will remain with me always. Margery OD
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April 29, 2025
With John's loving, caring family support he survived to attend his own wake. John had the observing eye of an artist and architect and new when colors and proportions were in harmony that served him well in building beautiful homes, he also saw only the good and eccentricities in people that gave him pleasure and brought smiles. Like his father he could be the center telling stories and singing songs or quietly in the background observing it all. He had subtle wisdom, moral compass and strong faith that guided him and those close to him. He always spoke kindly of others, quick to laugh, generous, upbeat and delight to be with. He was unique with the best of old-world Christian values. John was like a brother to me and shared his family; I will dearly miss his brotherhood for the rest of my days. John, R. I. P. Richie
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April 29, 2025
Our brother in law, John, will be remembered as a kind, respectful, humble, and positive gentleman. He was a happy Irishman who enjoyed singing Irish tunes on various occasions. His life was well lived— God, family, and friends were his priorities. RIP, John Jerry and Dianne
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April 29, 2025
John I have and always will remember you and I will ALWAYS MISS YOU MY FRIEND THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR ADVICE AND GUIDING ME IN THE RIGHT WAY MAY YOU REST I PEACEFULLY UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN XOXO
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