Irene Nicol of McConnelsville passed away peacefully on February 15, 2013, the morning of her 96th birthday. Born Vera Irene Thomas in Hackney, Center Township on February 15, 1917, she spent most of her life in Morgan County, Ohio. Irene married Richard H. (Dick) Nicol on July 20, 1941 and were married for 63 years. Irene and Dick owned and operated the Blue Bell Restaurant for 26 years and owned Nicol Apartments. Irene loved and was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was an avid golfer and a founding member of Ladies Golf League. Irene's community service included the American Legion Women's Auxiliary, Post 24, Mother's Club, Study Club, Bridge clubs, Morgan County Ladies Golf League and member of the OES in McConnelsville. Irene was known for her delicious brownies and chocolate chip cookies. She had an incredible sense of humor. Irene's stories always brought a smile to your face and you always had a good laugh in her presence. She enjoyed playing poker, bridge and euchre. Irene was proud to be a life-long Democrat and often talked politics with her friends and family. She cherished the companionship of her many friends and neighbors. Chris and Clyde Crawford were especially close to Irene and she regarded them as her family. She was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church in Zanesville, OH. Irene is pre-deceased by her husband, one brother, Bill Thomas, and her only child, Jimmy Dick Nicol. Irene is survived by daughter-in law, Donna Nicol, four grandchildren, J. Bryan Nicol (Traci), Brad Nicol, Barbie (Jack) Coleman and Beth (David) Dorminey, and 10 great-grandchildren, Zachary, Jack, Sam, Maddi, Caroline, Elise, Abby, Ava, Jack and Jane, sister in law, Marjorie Thomas, and nephew, Mark (Kim) Thomas. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the M&M Fire Department or American Legion Color Guard. Services will be held on Monday, Feb. 18, 2013 at 10:00 A.M. at the Matheney Funeral Home in McConnelsville with burial following in the McConnelsville Cemetery. Friends may call on the family on Sunday, Feb. 17, 2013 from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M.