Milas Nicholson

Milas Lee Nicholson Sr., a cherished father, devoted husband, and esteemed educator, went to walk with the Lord on May 11, 2025, at the age of 91. Born on November 8, 1933, in Hiawassee, Georgia, Milas lived a life grounded in deep faith, love, community, and learning.

Milas dedicated his life to educating the youth of Georgia, teaching in Habersham, White, and Towns Counties. His passion for teaching was evident to all who knew him; he inspired his students and left a lasting impact on many lives. He was known for his kindness, generosity, patience, and dedication to his family. His favorite ways to spend his time included walking, reading, puzzles, clocks, woodwork, beekeeping, and gardening. A loving husband, Milas shared life and love with Mary for 55 years until her death in 2008 and found a second love with Mattie and shared life with her for 13 years.

In addition to his committed role as an educator, Milas proudly served his country in the United States Army, instilling values of discipline and service in his family and community.

He is survived by a loving family that includes his wife Mattie Nicholson; daughters Elizabeth Foster, Deborah Templeton, and Jeanetta “Jean” Pocius; sons Charles (Aleta) Nicholson, Milas "Mickey" Nicholson Jr., and Reginald "Reggie" (Kathrine Petra Weiss) Nicholson; brother Lex (Lanell) Nicholson; sister Virginia Roach; and numerous nieces and nephews. He took great joy in being a grandfather to twenty grandchildren, seventeen great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

Milas was preceded in death by his parents Claude and Mary Nicholson; his beloved wife, Mary Elizabeth Ballard Nicholson; and siblings, Hascal Nicholson, Harald Nicholson, Gearld Nicholson, Lillian Darnell, and Arvin Nicholson.

Milas’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched. Family and friends will gather to honor him during a funeral service at Macedonia Baptist Church on May 15, 2025, at 11:00 AM, followed by a burial at Philadelphia Baptist Church Cemetery in Hayesville, North Carolina, at 12:00 PM. A public visitation will be held on May 14th, 2025 at 5:00 PM, at Cochran-McDaniel Funeral Home and Crematory Hiawassee Chapel.

Cochran-McDaniel Funeral Home honored to serve the family of Milas L. Nicholson. You may sign the guest register and send condolences to family at www.cochranmcdaniel.com