Patricia Lea Crawford Nicholas was born April 6, 1959, in Orlando, Florida to
Richard and Jovis Crawford. She was the fifth oldest of seven children. Trish
enjoyed growing up with her five brothers and sister: Rick, JoAnn, Wayne, Danny,
Oscar, and Gary. She and JoAnn were two girls in a boy’s world and inseparable
friends for life.
Patricia graduated from Evans High School in 1977. Her most cherished friends
were those who also attended First Baptist Church of Pine Hills. From the second
grade, Trish knew God was calling her to become a teacher. Graduating from Pensacola
Christian College in 1982, she taught first through fourth grades for twenty-eight
years before retiring. While at The Master’s Academy, a friend introduced her to
the one who was to become the love of her life, Chip Nicholas whom she married
June 18, 1988, at Woodhaven Baptist Church of Orlando.
Trish moved twenty-one times when her husband became an Army Chaplain
(1997-2017). With each move she made each place a home, raised her two
children, taught at numerous Christian Schools, participated in military chapel life,
cared for her mother Jovis, a dependent for nineteen years, and spoiled her
Pomeranians.
A beautiful and gracious lady, Trish loved to mentor and encourage others. She
made fantastic meals and desserts for family and friends. She was an artistic and
inspiring designer of classroom décor. She commonly wore dresses and sandals.
Her interests include watching movies and British drama and detective series and
listening to music. She faithfully read her Bible and prayed. She loved snuggling.
Patricia was a beloved wife, loving and caring mother, sister, aunt, and friend. She
is greatly missed. She was adored by her father-in-law Bill, mother-in-law Martha,
and sister-in-law Tammy. Patricia is preceded in death by her parents Richard and
Jovis. Patricia is survived by her husband Chip Nicholas, daughter Julia, son Scott,
sister JoAnn (Jimmy), her brothers Rick (Debbe), Wayne (Mary Anne), Danny,
Oscar, and Gary, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Public Visitation will be July 8. 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM (ET) at DeGusipe Funeral Home and Crematory. 1400 Matthew Paris Blvd. Ocoee, FL 34761
Funeral Service will be July 9. 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (ET) at Woodhaven Baptist Church. 3035 36st St. Orlando, FL 32839