Obituary of James Oliver Nida

Durham - Mr. James Oliver Nida, 88, passed peacefully in his sleep Sunday morning at Hillcrest Convalescent Center.

Mr. Nida was born on February 13, 1930 in Carthage, Missouri to the late Oliver and Neva James Nida.  He was raised and educated in Carthage.  Upon graduation from high school, he immediately enlisted in the US Navy, retiring in 1969 after 21 years of service.  After leaving the Navy, Mr. Nida worked with the NROTC program at UNC-Chapel Hill until 1974.  He was then employed with UNC Hospitals, retiring as the Associate Director of Purchasing.  

Mr. Nida was an avid bowler and received several awards while stationed in Europe. After retiring from UNC in 1991, he joined a billiards league and played on a pool team for the next 25 years. During that time, he made lasting friendships and enjoyed the comradery. He also played golf.  Mr. Nida was a devoted and engaged father. He attended almost all of the sporting events for his son and daughter. He also adored his granddaughters. As they were growing up, he was known as volleyball grandpa. He traveled all over the state of North Carolina and outside of the state lines to watch his granddaughters play club volleyball. He was so enthusiastic, he even attended their practices. 

Mr. Nida is survived by his children, Jimmy Nida, and his wife, Tambi, of Hillsborough; Terri Nida, of Durham; and his granddaughters, Jessica and Kristen Nida.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Doris Ann Bolt Nida.

A funeral service was held on Wednesday, October 17, 2018 at 2:00pm in Bethel Baptist Church, Rev. Elmer Joyner officiated.  Burial with military honors followed in Chapel Hill Memorial Cemetery.  

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Mr. Nida's name to a charity of your choice.

The Nida family is under the care of Walker's Funeral Home of Chapel Hill.