Dr Sheila DuPont-Nichols

Dr. Sheila Desire DuPont-Nichols was born September 11, 1957, to the late Herman Anderson and Helen DuPont in Seaford De. She departed this world peacefully in her home surrounded by her friends and family on May 22, 2024. Sheila received her early spiritual foundation from St. Matthew’s Baptist Church, in Laurel, Delaware, where she attended Sunday school, regular worship services, and sang in the Youth Choir. At the time of her departure, she was a faithful member of the New Calvary Baptist Church in Wilmington, Delaware, under the spiritual leadership of Bishop Vincent P. Oliver Sr. As a member, Sheila served on the usher board and was superintendent of Christian Education. Sis. Sheila was a devoted member and loved her church family immensely. Dr. Nichols received her formal education from the Laurel Public School System and graduated from Laurel High School in 1975. She began her 28-year career at Daimler Chrysler Corporation and advanced in multiple positions. In May 2001, Sheila obtained her Associate Degree in Human Services Technology from Delaware Technical Community College. Her desire for greater knowledge led her to receive her bachelor’s degree in social work in August 2003 from Widner University. Always looking to advance, Sheila returned to Widener University and received her Master of Social Work in 2009. Sheila's relationship with the Lord piqued her interest in spiritual truths. As a result, she attended Calvary Bible Institute - Friends International, where she obtained her Doctor of Ministry in 2012. From her union with her former spouse, Alex Nichols Sr., Shelia gained a bonus daughter in Kenyata (Kim) Chandler and gave birth to two beautiful children, Alex, Jr., and Tiffany Chavis. Sheila wanted nothing more than to leave a legacy of love and devotion to her children, whom she adored dearly. She was always present to lead and guide them in the right direction and would consistently go to bat for them in every way possible. While she was blessed with 3 children, Sheila played the role of mother to many other children, who affectionately called her “Mom”. After retiring from Chrysler in 2008, she became the Program Director at Crossroads of Delaware Center for eight years. Following her success at Crossroads, Sheila became the partial owner of the Phoenix Center for Health and Wellness. Dr. Nichols dedicated much of her time and attention to the success of her beloved clients. She utilized her experience, wisdom, and faith as she provided her life as a testimony that even the toughest of roads could lead to a victorious place. In addition to helping many overcome addictions and troubled pasts she established Sheila D. Nichols, LLC. where she partners to help meet community needs through the Delaware Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, also known as LIHEAP. Her biggest hobby was spending quality time with her family. Most often she would initiate gatherings, where the sole purpose was to enjoy one another. Sheila played a pivotal role in her family, at any one time she could be a lawyer, doctor, advocate, guardian, organizer, and friend. Sheila was the family historian and counselor, and in many ways, was a thread that held them all together. She also loved good food! On beautiful sunny days, she'd volunteer to drive a distance so the family could enjoy her favorite Maryland blue crabs. When Dr. Nichols found an available Saturday, she could be found at the gun range with her nieces and nephews, where she found great peace. Sheila knew how to enjoy life and made the best of many unfortunate situations. She also found joy in retail therapy, the Dallas Cowboys, traveling, dancing, and bowling. Dr. Nichols was preceded in death by her Father Herman Anderson, her mother Helen DuPont, her brothers; David DuPont, Herman (Scooby) DuPont, Charles (Duck) DuPont, and her sister; Ethel Odem. She leaves to cherish her memory, her children Alex Nichols, Jr. (Nicole), Tiffany Chavis, and Kenyata (Kim) Chandler. Her godchildren, Michael Jackson (Vondilyn), and James Bostic (Atiya). Her grandsons Jyair Nichols, Jayceon Nichols, Nicholas Blackwell, Titan Chavis, and Kristopher Chandler. Her one and only granddaughter Trinity Chavis. Her only living brother, Wardell DuPont. Loving sisters, Willie Mae Worthom, Eleanor Brown (Alexander), and Darlene Carr. She would also leave behind a host of nieces, nephews, friends, and chosen family.

Dr Sheila DuPont-Nichols

September 11, 1957 - May 22, 2024