Cecil Nichol, the 1996 Senior Pro World Champion Team Roper and legend in the roping community, passed away on December 30, 2025, in the home he built with his own two hands in 1974.
Ninety-one years is a long time to walk this earth, and Cecil lived every one of them with intention. He loved to rope, and anyone who knew him would tell you he had a keen eye and great appreciation for a good horse.
But Cecil was far more than just a roper. In 1960, he married the love his life, Carol, raised three remarkable children—Terri, Tracy, and Bob—and built a successful construction business that allowed him to retire at just 55 years old. His influence only grew as his family did, shaping the lives of his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He loved breakfasts at Kenny’s Kitchen, playing golf, cheering on the 49ers, and snow-birding in Arizona.
Beyond his accomplishments, Cecil set an example of what a man should be. He worked hard, deeply loved his wife, took care of his family, and walked through life with confidence and respect. He didn’t demand attention or admiration, but he earned both through consistency, integrity, and the way he carried himself. Cecil lived his life with class and dignity, and in doing so, he inspired everyone around him to do the same.
Cecil didn’t believe in “getting old.” He didn’t like being called sir. He believed in showing up, doing the work, and figuring it out. Even into his nineties, he was still spinning steers. When saddling his horse became difficult, he didn’t ask for help, switch horses, or buy a lighter saddle. Instead, he went out and bought some weights. To Cecil, age was never an excuse. It was just another problem to solve.
When Carol passed away in 2023, Cecil lost a piece of his heart. But instead of retreating inward, he leaned harder into the people he loved. In his final years, Cecil rarely ate a meal alone. His calendar remained full of activities and events. He never missed one of his grandkid’s or great grandkid’s rodeos or sporting events. Friends and family filled his days, because being around Cecil just made your day a little brighter.
That truth was never more evident than at his Celebration of Life. The room was filled beyond capacity. Newborns and centenarians, ropers and businessmen, old friends and new faces who were all gathered to celebrate a life so big that one room couldn’t contain it.
As Cecil reunites with his beautiful bride, Carol, we are reminded that the true measure of a life isn’t found in bank accounts or assets on paper. It’s found in the lives we touch, the memories we create, and the time we give to one another. Cecil Nichol lived 91 extraordinary years, and while he will be deeply missed, we are all better for having known him.
“Never see another poor day.”
—Cecil Nichol
July 26, 1934 – December 30, 2025
For those who wish to read more about Cecil’s life and legacy, a longer feature is available at roperssportsnews.com.
