Niccola "Nickie" Penix, Indianapolis, passed away on Saturday, May 20, 2023. She was 83 years old. Niccola was born in Carrollton, KY  to her parents Vernon Louis DeVore and Helen Campbell DeVore. As a child, Niccola was diagnosed with polio and was able to overcome her struggles with the support of her family and the organization, March of Dimes. She graduated from Las Cruces High School, class of 1959. Niccola married her husband and soul mate, Samuel "Sam" Penix, on February 23, 1965 and they shared 58 years of marriage together until Sam passed away on July 9, 2011.
Niccola worked as a babysitter for a multitude of families and retired in 2017 after 50 years of service. Niccola held the title of a "Generational Babysitter"; under some circumstances, she babysat for multiple generations of the same family. Niccola was a member of Circle of Hope Wesleyan Church in Beech Grove with her husband for many years. As an adult, Niccola was diagnosed with and beat cancer with the support of her family and friends. Niccola enjoyed going bowling,watching western films and religiously supporting the Dallas Cowboys. Niccola was known as an amazing cook; some of her famous meals include: "plate sized" pancakes, macaroni and cheese, fried chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans and biscuits. Niccola loved her family fiercely; she took care of both her husband and son in her home until they passed away. Niccola was the matriarch of her family and the memories created will now be cherished by those she leaves behind.
Niccola is survived by her children, Peggy Jones, Sam "Keith" (Crissy) Penix; her son-in-law, Jonathan Ewbank; her grandchildren, Sam Penix, Mike Penix, Elizabeth Penix, Courtney Holtman, Kenny Penix, Renee Trent, and Cherie Funk; her great grandchildren, Chloe Penix, Piper Penix, Amelia Holstine, Brooklyn Holstine, Cali Allen, Paisley Holtman, Abigayle Holtman, JT White, Michael White, Justin (Tabitha) Ewbank, Hoyt Ewbank and Lincoln Ewbank; her great great grandchildren, Everly White and Tyler DeLucia; her nieces and nephews, Danny Smith and Rebecca "Becky" (Glen) Chatham.
Niccola is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Samuel Penix Sr.; her son, Allen Jones; her daughter, Gay Ewbank; her grandchild, Jon Ewbank; her sister, Laverne Smith; her infant brother, Dale Louis DeVore.
A visitation for Niccola will be held on Thursday, May 25, 2023 at Forest Lawn Funeral Home from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. The funeral service will be on Thursday, May 25, 2023 at 1:00 pm. Burial will immediately follow at Forest Lawn Memory Gardens at 2:00 pm.

Donations

For those choosing to make a memorial contribution, the family suggests that donations are given to March of Dimes.

Mail donations:

6330 E 75th St #306, Indianapolis, IN 46250