‘Love of our Lives’: Nicole Jones is all about making a difference in the lives of as many people as she can, and she is loved and appreciated for it

Nicole Jones is an amazing wife (to Randy Jones), daughter (to Donna Walthers), mother (to Madison Howell, Ryan Walthers, Meagan Wilson, Alexandria Jones and Dean Jones), and grandmother to Grayson (3) and Oliver (2).

In addition to being the hub of such a wonderful family, Nicole spends most of her week doing charity work that ultimately helps feed and provides for underprivileged children. It is her way of honoring her father, Stuart (Stu) Walthers, who was a Sheriff’s Deputy for 34 years while serving the poorest sections of the community for over a decade.

After hearing from so many people that Stu had impacted at his memorial service, Nicole decided to continue her father’s legacy. Nicole created a charity that initially provided Christmas presents and clothes for hundreds of underprivileged children, called “Following In Stu’s Footsteps.” Family, friends and eventually even corporate sponsors donated time, money and love to support helping children who would otherwise have had little to nothing during the holiday season.

Last year, Nicole began to partner with another charity organization called “Backpack Buddies,” which, in addition to annual toy drives, also has a store that sells goods donated by several entities and uses the proceeds to provide food to ensure these children have proper nutrition. She has also delivered Thanksgiving dinners to many families in need who were not able to come in and pick up the food.

Long story short, just like her father, Nicole has a huge, selfless heart, and all she wants to do is help others. Her charitable outreach is more than appreciated, and she is highly spoken of by many members of the community.

Kellianne Marks, the woman who started and runs Backpack Buddies and happens to be the Mayor of Orange City, had this to say about Nicole: “Nicole has been a Godsend for Backpack Buddies! I could tell from the first day that I met her, that her heart is very big and open to help anyone. I feel lucky to have met her and to work with her.”

And that’s just the beginning! Nicole is a tremendously selfless individual who helps many people she does not even know. But then, you look at Nicole on the homefront, and you become even more amazed by who she is.

Nicole is a huge holiday lover, especially Halloween, and she loves using her Cricut machine to customize her decorations. She can bring any theme – Pirates of the Caribbean; Disney Villains; BarbieLand; Jurassic Park; Haunted Theater; Movie Premiere Night or Toy Story – to life, and she loves making it fun for everyone. Her extended family members (including Randy’s Texas family), friends and neighbors mean so much to Nicole, but in all honesty, it is all about the kids and grandkids for Nicole.

“She loves them all the same,” Randy said about his and her kids.

Nicole’s daughter Meagan said, “She is the strongest person I know. I am so proud of everything she does for me and the people she helps.”

Nicole is always there for the kids, and they really love and appreciate her. They know she has been there for them at all times, and they all look up to her. She really is the glue that keeps the family together, and they all speak super highly of Nicole.

Speaking of which, Nicole’s daughter Madison just recently had this to say about her mother on Facebook:

“I truly couldn’t do this life without you. You inspire me every single day – to help others, to be a better mom, and to be a good daughter. Thank you for always being in my corner and for being our #1 supporter.

“I’m unapologetically a mama’s girl. Every moment in my life – big or small – warrants a call to you. Whether it’s a kiddo’s milestone, me grabbing fries and a Coke from McDonald’s, or finding the cutest thing while shopping… you’re always the first person I want to tell.

“Now that I have babies of my own, I truly understand the weight that comes with the title of Mom. You do it tired. You do it scared. You do it selflessly. Sometimes, you do it broke. But you still show up – without hesitation – because that’s what moms do. I love you with all my heart. God chose you to be my mom for a reason, and I’ll be forever thankful for that!”

“Local Hero: Nicole Jones Named “Most Wonderful Daughter by Devoted Mother

By Donna Walthers

In a heartwarming tribute that has touched many in the community, Nicole Jones has been nominated for the honorary “Most Wonderful Daughter” award by none other than her proud mother, Donna Walthers. 

Nicole’s unwavering support has been a constant presence throughout her life, but it was during her father’s prolonged illness that her dedication truly shone through. She never missed a doctor’s appointment, remained by his side through multiple surgeries, and became the emotional anchor of the family during his final days. 

Following her father’s passing, Nicole once again stepped up – this time rallying resources to prepare the family home for sale. Her keen eye for design played a key role in staging the house, and she seamlessly transitioned her mother into a new residence in Orange City, Florida. 

But her role as a caregiver did not end there. When Donna faced a sudden and rare illness that landed her in the hospital, Nicole once again rose to the occasion. She offered not just physical care, but emotional strength during another uncertain time. 

Beyond her caregiving, Nicole is also known for keeping the spirit of the family alive. From hosting holiday gatherings to organizing celebrations, she ensures that family traditions not only survive, but thrive.

In nominating her daughter, Donna Walthers summed it up best: “She’s not just my daughter – she’s the glue that holds us together.”

Local Woman Celebrated as ‘Mom of the Year’ on Her Birthday

By Ryan Walthers

In a heartwarming story of unwavering support and endless love, Nicole Jones is being celebrated today on her birthday as the unofficial ‘Mom of the Year’ by her family and friends. Known throughout the community for her kindness and dedication, Nicole Jones has consistently gone above and beyond for her loved ones. 

“She’s not just a mom; she’s our rock,” says her son, Ryan. “There’s never been a moment when I didn’t feel her support, whether it was for school projects, sports, or just needing someone to talk to. She always knows how to make things better.”

Friends echo similar sentiments, noting her willingness to lend a helping hand, her infectious laughter, and her ability to make everyone feel like family. 

From organizing neighborhood events to volunteering at local charities, Nicole Jones’ impact extends far beyond her immediate family. Her tireless efforts and positive attitude have made her a pillar of the community, and today, as she celebrates another year, those whose lives she has touched are taking a moment to express their gratitude and wish her the happiest of birthdays. 

37 Years Later: Family Still Haunted by Strange “Pink Ja Ja Ja” Kitchen Incident

By David Walthers

It’s been nearly four decades since the Walthers family of 228 Tom’s Road experienced one of the strangest—and most quietly unsettling—incidents in DeBary history.

The date was April 3, 1988, when 10-year-old Nicole Walthers reported being confronted in her kitchen by a silent figure dressed in what she called “the pink ja ja ja,” holding a box of Little Debbie Star Crunch snacks, and wearing a wig.

Nicole described the figure as a stranger. When asked for more detail, she told authorities the person was “an ungrateful b.”

Police responded quickly, but the intruder had already fled. It wasn’t until hours later that the truth emerged: the person was her mother, disguised and unrecognizable to her own child.

Authorities determined no criminal charges were warranted, and no physical harm occurred. Still, the emotional impact lingered.

Officer Tanya Reeves, now long retired, was one of the first on the scene that day. In a rare interview, she recalled the case as “one of the most bizarre and quietly tragic I ever handled. That a child could feel such fear in the presence of a parent says something deeper was going on.”

At the time:

David Walthers, 13, was grounded for opening all the household’s canned goods “just to see.”

Daniel Walthers, 8, was said to be “raising himself.”

Stuart Walthers, the father, was asleep ahead of his night shift and unaware of the events as they unfolded.

The incident left behind few tangible traces—a single Star Crunch wrapper and a name whispered with confusion and fear: “pink ja ja ja.”

Now, 37 years later, Nicole Walthers has not spoken publicly about that day. The case remains closed, but its surreal details continue to surface in local folklore, and in quiet conversations about family, memory, and the strange ways we cope.

Some call it a misunderstanding. Others, a moment of breakdown. But for Nicole, and for those who remember, it was a moment when something familiar became frightening—and something playful became a mask.

The past may be silent, but for those who lived it, it never quite disappears.

“The Love of My Life”

By Randy Jones

And then, there is the relationship Nicole has with her husband, who is the “LOML” to his “LOM.” Even after 15 years of marriage whether it is a phone call or a text, they still all start with one of us saying, “Love of My Life,” and the response from the other is always the same, “Love of Mine.”

Nicole is the one Randy gets to hold hands with during every car ride, and she is a true source of strength and determination. She does not let MS keep her down, and Nicole Jones is an impactful presence in so many people’s lives.

“I am so blessed for the wonderful life I live with Nicole Jones,” Randy concluded. “She is my Partner-In-Crime, my best friend, and the Love of My Life! We have had countless adventures and continue making memories non-stop. The piece of art on the wall in our family room says it well, ‘Welcome to Our Love Story.’ That about sums it up… and where each new adventure begins. All my heart, Nicole!”