Former Idaho Boxer Samuel Lynn Nichols passed away at the age of 94, leaving behind a lasting legacy to the community.
Born on August 23, 1931, in Draper, Utah, to parents Samuel Charles Nichols and Genevieve Barker Nichols, Sam grew up in Idaho Falls.
He attended Idaho Falls High School, where he became one of the rising stars in the local boxing community.
His impressive high school career earned him a scholarship to the University of Idaho, where he won a prestigious Golden Glove in the 1950s.
In addition to his boxing career, Sam’s love of sports extended throughout his life, and he later became a cherished coach at Cyprus High School in Utah.
There, he spent over 35 years teaching, counseling, and coaching students to success both on and off the field.
His coaching achievements left a lasting impact on generations of athletes. Now, in his death, many remember his teaching and his positive influence.
Uatha Community and Cyprus High School Family Mourn the Loss of Their Beloved Coach Samuel Lynn Nichols
Samuel Lynn Nichols passed away quietly at his home on November 5, 2025, at the age of 94, leaving behind a lasting.
Not just as a coach and mentor, Sma also had an impact in the military. After college, he joined the Army ROTC program and earned the rank of 2nd Lieutenant.
Later, he served as an elite Army Ranger in Korea, performing covert missions near the DMZ. A
After his honorable discharge in 1957, he returned to Utah and began a long teaching career.
In addition to coaching, he directed the night school program at Cyprus High School, supporting students who had left school to achieve their GEDs and pursue their goals.
All his honorable work and efforts in the community are now survived by his wife, Sharon Lynn Wright, with whom he shared 71 years of his life.
The couple had three sons together: Bryan, Jeff, and Steven, with their youngest, Steven, passing away before him.
Following his passing, not just the Nichols family, but the entire community has lost a part of itself, leaving everyone in deep mourning.
According to family members, the viewing for Sam is scheduled for Friday, November 14, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the North Holladay Stake Center, 4395 South Albright Drive, Holladay, Utah.
Likewise, the family will hold funeral services on Saturday, November 15, at 10:30 a.m. at the same location, with a viewing starting at 9:00 a.m.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Nichols family, friends, and all well-wishers.
Rest in Peace, Coach!
