Obituary of Vicki L Nicolls

Vicki’s Story Today we celebrate the magnificent and remarkable life of Vicki Nicolls. We ask you to rejoice with us, in acknowledging her call to the Lord. A call that we recognize as a symbol of a job well done. Vicki’s time on earth was filled with love, passion, and hope. It seemed that a light covered her wherever she went. We all felt that light every time we were in her presence. She was always the one who acknowledged your accomplishments, supported your dreams and encouraged you to keep trying. Kind words poured from her mouth and washed you in your time of despair. Hugs and gentle kisses reminded you that you will prevail. Smiles and simple conversation provided air beneath your wings. She was everything you needed when you needed it most. She was always the positive reinforcement and the replenisher of spirit and health. Vicki loved to uplift. Her quiet strength empowered us all. We are fortunate to have known her. We are honored to acknowledge her call to grace. Her parents, Howard A. Collins and Christine R. Collins gave birth to seven children. Vicki was the 3rd child, born on September 5th, 1955. She was raised in Camden and educated in the Camden public school system. A tragic accident forced her to leave school before graduating. The accident also took away her right hand. Vicki taught herself to write with her left hand, got married and gave birth to two children before resuming studies at Woodrow Wilson high School, where she received a High School Equivalency diploma. She went on to Camden County College and graduated with an associates degree in accounting. After graduation she begin working as an accounting clerk at Campbell’s Soup. While working at Campbell’s Soup and caring for her family, she continued to pursue education. Vicki also attended Rutgers University and graduated with honors. She continued working at Campbell’s Soup and received several promotions in the accounting department. Vicki became the first African American Accounting Manager in Campbell’s history. After thirty years of service at Campbell Soup, Vicki retired. Vicki’s Christian walk began as a child. She attended Bethel A.M.E. church in Camden and was baptized at Camden Miracle Center where she was active on the Usher board. She later became a member of Living Faith Christian Center in Pennsauken NJ. Vic where she served as an Elder and Minister of the church. She also worked with the Help Ministry and was also the church Accountant for several years until her passing. It was clear that Vicki was a woman of faith, virtuous by nature, a servant of God in every sense of the word. Vicki’s commitment to being a vessel of hope was easily recognized by the smile on her face, the kind words she delivered and her glowing presence. In 1993 she married George Nicolls, a loving and devoted husband. The two shared twenty-nine years of happiness. George was a true partner in all things. He was completely committed to Vicki’s happiness and wellbeing. Vicki has received many awards and acknowledgments throughout her life. Nevertheless, it seems tragedy revealed her true greatness. In 2012, her daughter died suddenly due to a rare blood disorder. Amid this incredibly tragic event, Vicki founded The Ree Wynn Foundation. Over the past ten years, the Ree Wynn Foundation has provided financial support to The University of Pennsylvania, The University of Alabama and the University of Kansas to fund research that will one day find a cure for Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP). Under Vicki’s leadership the Foundation has grown to become a leader in providing support for TTP survivors and their families. Vicki has raised awareness for TTP through blood drives and community events. She has held education days for medical providers and students. She has made countless phone calls and traveled to visit the hospital beds of people suffering with TTP. She consoled the parents, spouses, friends and family members of those who have passed and those who are living with TTP. Vicki created the first TTP support group for patients in the Delaware Valley. The support group now supports people throughout the United States and is being duplicated in Oklahoma and Canada. She has touched TTP survivors in The United Kingdom, Australia and Africa. Vicki’s reach is far and wide. Her legacy is strong and true. Her love is infinite. As we celebrate her, we remember those who have gone before her. We acknowledge the ancestors whose strength and love served as her guiding light. We remember her parents Howard and Christine Collins, her brother Howard (Rocky) Collins and her daughter Reeshemah Wynn. To carry on her love, encouragement and compassion for others. She leaves to cherish her husband George A. Nicolls; son James Wynn (Fonda); Grandchildren Malika Pratt, Travis Wynn, Jimir Wynn, Samaj Wynn, Justin Wynn, Jasiri Wynn and Jeremiah Wynn, siblings Violet (Joy) Collins, Mark Collins (Yvonne), Donna Danford (Leroy), Dwayne Collins (Loretta) and Christopher Collins (Releta); 10 Great-grandchildren along with a host of Aunts, Uncles, Nieces, Nephews, Cousins, In-laws and Friends. Lovingly submitted the Family.