Susie Nichols began a heartfelt tradition that has now become a staple for the Nichols family and their team: Sunday harvest lunches. It all started in 2000 when Susie, feeding between 20-30 people, decided to bring everyone together over a meal. One day, her husband, Chuck Nichols, came home to find crock pots filled with spaghetti scattered around the kitchen. Without missing a beat, Susie explained that anyone who spent their Sunday working alongside the family deserved to share a hearty meal together.

What began as a simple gesture of gratitude quickly evolved into something much more meaningful, bringing the Nichols Farms community together over a warm, home-cooked meal. Over time, the Sunday lunches became a beloved routine for the Nichols’ harvest team, growing to feed over 330 people in 2024. It’s a time when everyone can come together to relax, share stories, and build a sense of camaraderie. The meals serve as a reminder that hard work should be appreciated, and Susie’s welcoming nature turned these lunches into something people look forward to each year. Her nurturing spirit and belief that a simple meal could make a big difference fostered a sense of belonging, reminding everyone that they were more than just workers—they were part of a family.

Even after Susie’s passing, her legacy lives on through this tradition. In her memory, the Nichols family now hosts a spaghetti lunch once each harvest season, keeping her spirit alive in every meal served. It’s a testament to Susie’s generous heart and her belief in the importance of showing gratitude. Each gathering not only honors her memory but also strengthens the bonds she worked so hard to build among the people who help bring Nichols Farms to life.