Nichols- Lou Ella Fowler, 73, died Thursday, April 12, 2012 at Carolinas Hospital System in Florence following a courageous battle with cancer. She was born in Columbus County, N.C., a daughter of the late Ernest and Lizzie Smith Benton. She was a longtime employee of Tabor Products Inc. Mrs. Fowler was a loving mother, grandmother, and friend that will be dearly missed. She loved the outdoors and especially riding motorcycles and spending time with her pet, Misty. She was predeceased by a sister, Vera Mae Long and a special niece, Renee Tanner. Mrs. Fowler is survived by two daughters, Patricia (Troy) Grainger of Mullins and Rhonda (Brett) King of Marion; one sister, Glendora Benton (Lester) Green of Shallotte, N.C.; three grandchildren, Brandon Gore, Brent King, and Ryan King; a very special friend, John Cook, Jr. and a very special pet, Misty. The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m., Saturday, April 14, 2012 at Meares Funeral Home in Mullins. A graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, April 15, 2012 at Red Hill Memorial Gardens in Mullins. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, St. Jude Tribute Program, P.O. Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38148 or Shiloh United Methodist Church, 3903 West Highway 76, Marion, S.C. 29571. A message of condolence for the family may be left at mearesfh.com. Meares Funeral Home of Mullins is assisting the family with arrangements.