Born in Arkansas in 1892, Dora’s family moved to Texas in 1900, settling in Stephenville, where she later attended Tarleton College. Following in her parents’ footsteps, she also became an educator. After teaching for a few years, she returned to school herself, earning a master’s degree from Baylor University.

After teaching at colleges, she began an impactful career at Arlington High School in the late 1920s, where she taught English and Spanish for over 30 years before retiring in 1958. Over the decades, she taught hundreds of students, including future Arlington mayors (notably Tom Vandergriff and Harold Patterson), councilmembers, and educators. In 1960, Nichols Junior High was named in her honor to recognize her lasting impact on the district—an honor she was deeply proud of.

Beyond the classroom, Nichols was active in civic life as a member of the Arlington Garden Club, the Arlington Woman’s Club, and the Arlington Art Association. She was also a long-time member of First Baptist Church of Arlington.

Former students fondly remember Mrs. Nichols as a dedicated, enthusiastic educator who took a personal interest in their lives, with many recalling her signature style of wearing chopsticks in her hair. Later in life, she pursued painting with serious talent and passion.

Nichols passed away on February 19, 1986, at the age of 93, and was laid to rest in Parkdale Cemetery.

Arlington’s First Lady in Education – Dora Nichols – on the cover of The Arlingtonian magazine in October 1981

Dora E. Nichols
Fort Worth Star-Telegram – February 21, 1986
Newspapers.com

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Blog post by Jason S. Sullivan, 02-19-26