James "Jim" David Nickell

James David “Jim” Nickell
 

Scripture:
Psalm 27:4

One thing I ask from the LORD, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Jim Nickell, a devoted husband, father, and public servant, who passed away on January 24, 2025, at the age of 75. Jim was a man of remarkable character, unwavering dedication, and immense love for his family and community.

Born in Kentucky on August 2, 1949, in Carter County, Jim’s life was shaped by a passion for service and justice. A proud graduate of Morehead State University, Jim went on to continue his professional training at Eastern Kentucky University and the Federal Law Enforcement Academy.

After his service in the U.S. Army, he returned to Kentucky, where he worked for Larry Fannin and then ran for sheriff at just 27 years old, marking the start of his long and distinguished law enforcement career. Over the next 48 years, Jim held numerous leadership and administrative positions, consistently approaching each role with
integrity, dedication, and a strong sense of duty. 

Jim’s career in public service was highlighted by his time as Rowan County Sheriff and Judge Executive, positions that allowed him to make a lasting impact on his community. He later worked for the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office for 19 years, where he served as a Criminal Investigator and Supervisor. His dedication to justice also led him to the role of Assistant Director of the Prosecutor Advisory Council, where he contributed to shaping the state’s legal landscape. After a brief retirement in 2004, Jim returned to work as a Detective with the 37th Circuit Commonwealth Attorney’s Office. He then went on to serve two more terms as Rowan County Judge Executive, where he continued to put his heart and soul into the community he loved.

In August 2022, Jim was appointed by Governor Andy Beshear to the Kentucky Parole Board, a position he served with respect and care until his health forced his resignation in January 2025. Throughout his professional life, Jim was known not only for his dedication to the law, but for his compassion, fairness, and commitment to doing right by others.

Jim’s true legacy, however, lies in his role as a husband, father, and grandfather. He loved his family fiercely and worked tirelessly to provide for them. He was a man of his word, a man of his faith, and a man who believed deeply in the importance of family and community. Jim was an active and dedicated member of the Forks of Elkhorn Baptist Church, where he was ordained to the work of the Gospel Ministry on October 23, 2022. His faith was central to his life, guiding him in both his work and his relationships, and he served his church with the same dedication and devotion that he brought to every aspect of his life. He leaves behind a legacy of service, love, and unwavering faith that will continue to inspire those who knew him.

Jim was preceded in death by his beloved brother, Russell Nickell; his son, David Nickell; his father, William “Bill” Black; his mother, Edna “Tiny” Black; and his sister, Robin Black.

He is survived by his loving wife, Donna Pratt Nickell; daughter, Amy (Mark) Keadle; son, James Gabriel (Lena) Nickell, all of Frankfort, Kentucky; a sister, Janet Alderman of Morehead, Kentucky; a brother, William Ray Black of Atlanta, Georgia; grandchildren, Morgan Kunkle, Austin Scott, Kennedy Scott, Landon Scott, Karis Nickell, and Gabriel Nickell; great-granddaughter, Presley Kunkle; and many in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Jim’s passing leaves a hole in the hearts of all who knew him, but his memory will live-on in the countless lives he touched. His legacy of service, love, and devotion will never be forgotten.

A visitation of remembrance will be held from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, January 30, 2025, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals Memorial Chapel, 400 Fraley Drive, Morehead, KY 40351.

At a later date, a memorial service will be held at Forks of Elkhorn Baptist Church in Midway, Kentucky, and military honors by Morehead American Legion Post No. 126 at Brown Cemetery in Morehead.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations to Forks of Elkhorn Baptist Church at https://forksbaptist.org/give/

Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals, 400 Fraley Drive, Morehead, KY 40351 will be caring for all arrangements.

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