George Donald Nicely or "Don Stevens"'s Obituary
George Donald Nicely or “Don Stevens” is now reporting live from the afterlife. Early on the morning of September 7th Don signed off earth for the last time to catch his train onward to bigger and better stories. Anyone who knew him knew he was always ready with a joke, kind word, or song for the occasionDon was born February 22nd 1929 as the only child of Tandy and Lucille Nicely. Living in Detroit Michigan, Don spoke fondly of riding the streetcar to concerts an introduction to a lifelong love and appreciation of music. Quickly growing out of his knickerbockers, Don moved to a military affiliated boarding school in Tennessee connected to Lee College. Don would go on to serve in both the Navy and Airforce. It was at Lee College however, that he would meet his “Girlie” the then Charlotte Virginia Patterson. They would be married when Don was 19 years old in 1948. A year later their first child Lyle Steven Nicely was born. Never to leave a child lonely, Don and Charlotte had Charleene Virginia Nicely three years later. Don would cement himself as an example for other fathers in love and devotion to his children.Don also excelled in his professional life with a thriving career in news with WHBQ Channel 13 in Memphis. As the intrepid Don Stevens, Don helped bring the civil rights movement to the living rooms of his neighbors. He loved his work and often commented that he couldn’t believe they paid for something he love so much. He was able to transition his skills in broadcasting to IMM (International Media Ministries). It was through the organization that he lived abroad for several years setting up broadcasting centers and ministering the word.Able to combine his love of music and love of God, Don was part of the Memphis Television Choir for over 20 years. In his final days Don listened fondly to the voices of the past, eyes closed, directing an unseen chorus.He is preceded by devoted friends as well as his beloved parents Tandy and Lucille Nicely. He is also preceded by his loving wife, his best friend, his “Girlie” Charlotte Virginia NicelyHe is survived by dedicated friends, his children of creation (Lyle and Charleene Nicely), children of choice (Barbara Watson, Ray Hill, and Dana Hill), Grandchildren (Sarah Beth Gallenberger, Sierra Nicely, and Orion Nicely).The family will receive relatives and friends on Monday, September 10 from 5-7pm at Memorial Park Funeral Home and Cemetery, 5668 Poplar Avenue in Memphis. The funeral will be on Tuesday, September 11 also at the funeral home at 2:30pm. The burial will immediately follow. Memorial contributions can be made the The Wounded Warriors Project.To view the tribute slideshow, please click here: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/QKS9CC78QD8ZX3ZH
What’s your fondest memory of George?
What’s a lesson you learned from George?
Share a story where George's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with George you’ll never forget.
How did George make you smile?