Mr. James J. “Nick” Nicolette, age 73, passed into the loving arms of our Lord after a courageous battle with cancer, on Friday, May 5, 2023, in Leesville, LA, where he has lived for many years. Born on May 28, 1949, James was the son of the late Salvatore and Annabelle Nicolette. He was raised and educated in Ilion, graduating from Ilion High School with the Class of 1968. Upon completion of his schooling, James went on to enlist in the military and proudly served his country as a member of both the United States Air Force and the United States Army. He served his career in the military and upon his retirement, he worked as a civilian at Fort Polk, transporting our troops. He also remained a life member of the American Legion. James was blessed to share in a marriage with the late Anne (McGinty) Nicolette, who passed away in May of 1997. He has been blessed these past twenty-two years to share in a relationship with Deborah Craft-Reed, who never left his side and cared for him throughout his illness. Gifted with athleticism, James excelled in sports in his younger years, particularly in track events. He was a caring and loving man who would give the shirt off his back for those in need. His presence will be forever remembered by those he leaves behind. He is survived by his companion, Deborah Craft-Reed and her son, Jack, of Louisiana; his brothers, Gerald (JoAnn) Nicolette and Doug (Lori) Nicolette; his sisters, Jean (Walter) Scram and Carol Perez; along with several special nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, grandchildren, cousins and friends. James also leaves behind his beloved fury friend, a cat named Spaz. Aside from his wife, Anne, and parents, James was predeceased by his brother, Martin Nicolette, in February of this year, and his brother-in-law, Michael Perez. In keeping with his wishes, James’ earthly remains will be laid to rest on Saturday, May 13, 2023 at 11:00AM at Leesville Cemetery in Leesville, LA. The Nicolette family will be holding a Celebration of Life in memory of both James and his brother, Martin, on July 8, 2023 at 1:00PM at the Ilion Knights of Columbus. All are invited to attend. Online notes of sympathy for the Nicolette family may be left at www.eneafamily.com. Local arrangements entrusted to the Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home.