Diante Elyjah Nichols

Our sweet, funny, Diante Elyjah Nichols, (Deebo rooskie, hambone) blessed us with his presence on July 25, 2003 in Santa Barbara, California. A true Californian at heart, a ride or die and loyal father, son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin and friend to many. Diante fought a long hard battle for 2 years and never once complained about why he was dealt this hand in life. He would always say not to worry about him, that cancer did not define his life it was just a chapter in his book. Throughout his battle he continued to have a spirit of faith, determination and hope. He achieved getting his barber license and still selling his clothing brand ( Dream Beyond Dreams) all while suffering the side effects of chemo. Diante started his clothing line right after high school all on his own will and finances. A true entrepreneur at heart he was determined never to work for “the man”. He was always “broke” because 80% of his checks would go to an untouched account that he would use to fulfill his dreams. He worried more about how his illness affected the mental status of those closest to him above himself, a true selfless person. Recently he posted his only fear was to lose his mom, and for his mom to lose him. His dad stood by his side through all of his appointments, he was never left alone to fight this by himself. Diante was a real one, keeping his circle small. Once you were in his circle you were always in his circle. His loyalty and protectiveness of those he trusted knew no bounds.

Diante is preceded in death by his great grandma Rose Borjon, great grandma Lavina Myers, great grandma Katy, great grandma Lola Nichols, great grandpa Earnest Nichols, great grandpa Earl Smith, grandma Debbie Viramontes, cousin Jabbaar Mahood and daughter Zaikylah Nichols. He leaves behind a whole troop of loved ones. Mother and father Rickey and Angelica Nichols, brothers Rickey, Duane, Derell, Darryn and his only sister, princess Chasidae Nichols. He is also survived by his loving grandparents Rickey Nichols, Lloydetta ( nana) Grider, Joaquin and Chris Viramontes. Unconditionally loved by his aunts and uncles, Joaquin (Jay) Viramontes, Rachel Viramontes, DeeAnn and Lumpy Capener;Lawanna Nichols, Lavanna Nichols/Dow, and Selena Nichols. Surrounded by a surplus of cousins, Lavina, Joaquin, Jonathan Viramontes; Shamony, Pashion, Teya, Samyia; Kennth, Reginald, Davon, Josiah; Rochad, Alina and oh so many more. He was the guardian and protector to so many people, but his closest friends will always hold a reserved place for him in their heart.

Thank you John Reyes, Gavin Garcia, Damien Deltoro, Nathan Kemp, and Ruben Davalos for the brotherhood you gave him. To my adopted daughters, Akilah Woodford/Sims, Jayda Mccloyn, and Alize Hills. You all held special places in his heart during different phases of his life, and will always be a part of the Nichols family. Diante went to be with his Heavenly Father on April 27, 2026 at Children’s Primary Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah. He is now chasing his toddler, Zaikylah, around in those golden fields with all of his loved ones embracing him. My son, you will be so very missed…that crooked smile…those exaggerated stories that made everyone laugh, and your motivation and drive in life. And especially your unconditional love for your family and friends. Until we meet again my sweet sweet boy.

Services will be Friday, May 1, 2026 1PM at Larkin Sunset Gardens. A visitation will be held an hour prior. Interment will be at Larkin Sunset Gardens. Those who would like to attend services virtually may do so by clicking "watch services."