Dena Kristen Nichols, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and trailblazing public servant, passed away on May 14, 2025, in Dallas, Texas, at the age of 58. She was born on February 14, 1967, in Clearfield, Utah.

A proud member of the small but mighty 3% of female firefighters in the country, Dena served her community with courage and compassion. She made history as the first female Lieutenant at the Hutchins Fire Department, rising through the ranks to lead with skill and grace. As a licensed paramedic, firefighter, and EMS Supervisor, she took on roles that few women dared to pursue. Her dedication to emergency service was matched only by her love for people and her unwavering faith.

Dena was a graduate of Hutchins Baptist School and went on to further her education at Cedar Valley College. She studied nursing at El Centro College and completed her firefighter training at the DeSoto Fire Academy. She was also a cherished member of the library staff at Hutchins Baptist Church, where her love of books and learning enriched the lives of many.

An avid reader, talented scrapbooker, and craft expert, Dena found joy in creativity and expression. She loved taking road trips and making memories with her family. She was a devoted Christian whose faith anchored every aspect of her life. Her greatest joys were her grandchildren, whom she adored and cherished deeply.

Dena embodied strength and grace. She was fiercely loyal, fearlessly calm under pressure, and endlessly generous. Her presence was a guiding light to those around her, and her legacy will live on in the lives she touched.

She was preceded in death by her father, David Carl Eckenfels and her brother, David Carl Eckenfels II.

Dena is survived by her loving husband, Steve Nichols; her children, Stephen Nichols, Brandon Nichols, Austin Nichols, and Kristen Nichols. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Isabella, Finley, Adeline, Jaimee, and Dylan; her mother, Karen Eckenfels; her siblings, Elizabeth, Jay (and wife Michelle), and Kathryn; along with five nephews, three nieces, and eleven great-nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Dena's life will be held on 2:00pm Monday May 19, 2025 at First Baptist Hutchins with a visitation starting an hour before the service at 1:00pm. The family invites all who knew and loved her to attend and honor her memory.

Dena will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.