Karla Janet Nichols, 64, of Fulton passed away at her home on Wednesday, September 30, 2020. She was born in Houston, Texas on October 21, 1955 to the late Rowan Dale Nelson Sr. and the late Janet I. (Bueneman) Nelson. On October 7, 1973, Karla married Joe Curtis Nichols Sr. who survives her passing. Karla worked in home health care for over 25 years, giving compassionate and loving care to the ill and aging. She truly loved her patients, and they loved her in return. She was an animal lover and advocate. Karla especially loved her Great Pyrenees, Brandy, and sea turtles. Blessed with a green thumb, she had a way with flowers and could keep them blooming year-round. Karla loved all types of crafts and enjoyed attending craft fairs and festivals, as well as garage sales. Karla was passionate about decorating for all seasons, holidays and family traditions were always celebrated. She loved sporting her vast collection of holiday earrings. Karla enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandbabies, whether it was a holiday, family game night, or time spent at the lake. She will be fondly remembered by her husband of 47 years; son, Joe Curtis Nichols Jr. of Columbia; daughter, Heather Lynn Schulte (Brad) of Columbia; brothers, Rowan D. Nelson Jr. (Vic) of Fulton, and Matthew M. Nelson (Nancy) of Corvallis, Or.; sisters, Dorothy B. Nelson of Quincy, Il., and Kathy Garrett (David) of Fulton; grandchildren, Logan, Caden, Asher, and Finley Schulte; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 3, 2020 at Maupin Funeral Home in Fulton with Reverend Guy Thomas officiating. Friends will be received from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home. Interment will be in Hillcrest Cemetery. Memorial donations are suggested to Sam and Daisy Grabb Animal Shelter, c/o Maupin Funeral Home, 301 Douglas Boulevard, Fulton, MO 65251. Condolences may be left for the family on this site.