GLEN BURNIE, Md. — A veteran corrections officer in Maryland met a tragic end just hours after celebrating his retirement on New Year's Eve, leaving colleagues and friends mourning the loss of a beloved figure known for his warmth and dedication.
John Raymond Nicholson, 57, who had served for 24 years at the Prince George’s County Department of Corrections, died in a single-vehicle crash when his 2020 Dodge pickup truck veered off the road and struck a pole near the intersection of Crain Highway and Defense Highway in Anne Arundel County. The incident occurred around 7:40 p.m. on December 31, 2025, according to the Anne Arundel County Police Department. Nicholson, affectionately called “Big Nic” by those who knew him, had marked his final day on the job earlier that evening with a heartfelt retirement party at the facility.
The celebration was a fitting tribute to a man who had become a fixture at the corrections center in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. Nicholson started his career there in 2001 and over the years took on various roles, eventually rising to the rank of master corporal—a position reserved for officers with extensive service and leadership qualities. In his most recent assignment, he manned the reception desk, where he greeted visitors each morning with a smile that set a positive tone for the day, according to a statement from the department.
Colleagues remembered the party as a joyful affair, capturing the close-knit camaraderie among the staff. A video shared on Facebook showed younger coworkers playfully handcuffing Nicholson and parading him through the facility, a lighthearted tradition that involved squeezing the breast pockets of his uniform. Photographs from the event depicted Nicholson beaming and laughing alongside fellow retirees, soaking in the appreciation after more than two decades of service.
“Many people don’t get to receive their ‘flowers’ while they can still smell them. Although his passing was hours after his retirement, DOC was able to give Big Nic his well-deserved flowers. MCpl. Nicholson will be missed, but he will not be forgotten,” the Prince George’s County Department of Corrections wrote in a poignant social media post announcing his death.
Nicholson’s contributions extended beyond routine duties. He earned a Valor Award for his work on the Emergency Response Team, a specialized unit that handles high-risk situations within the facility. His progression through the ranks highlighted his commitment to the demanding field of corrections, where officers often face long hours, emotional strain, and the need for unwavering vigilance. The department, which oversees the county’s jails and detention centers, praised Nicholson as a “cornerstone” of the team, emphasizing his role in fostering a supportive environment amid the challenges of incarceration management.
The crash site, located in a busy suburban area south of Baltimore, is a stretch of road known for heavy traffic, especially during holiday periods. According to police reports, Nicholson lost control of his vehicle for reasons that remain under investigation. No other vehicles were involved, and authorities have not released details on potential factors such as weather conditions or mechanical issues. The Anne Arundel County Police Department stated that the investigation is ongoing, with no immediate determination on the cause.
Friends and former colleagues took to social media to share their grief, painting a picture of a man whose gentle demeanor left a lasting impact. “Definitely a good soul, full of smiles and laughter. You’re one of the best Big Nic,” one friend posted on Facebook. Another wrote, “Nic, you were such a gentle soul and there are just no words to say how much you will be missed.” These tributes underscored the personal connections Nicholson built over his career, turning professional relationships into lifelong bonds.
In the broader context of public service retirements, Nicholson’s story resonates as a reminder of the sacrifices made by corrections officers. The profession, often overshadowed by more visible roles in law enforcement, involves overseeing the care and security of inmates in facilities like the Prince George’s County Correctional Center, which houses thousands. Officers like Nicholson navigate daily interactions that require both firmness and empathy, contributing to public safety while managing the complexities of rehabilitation and order.
The timing of the tragedy added a layer of heartbreak, coming so soon after what should have been a triumphant milestone. Retirements in corrections are hard-earned, often following decades of shift work and exposure to stressful environments. Department officials noted that the party allowed Nicholson to receive the recognition he deserved in real time, a rare occurrence in a field where many depart quietly after years of service.
Anne Arundel County, where the crash occurred, has seen its share of roadway incidents, particularly on highways like Crain, which serves as a vital artery connecting rural and urban areas. Local traffic safety advocates have long called for improvements to such routes, citing speeding and poor visibility as recurring issues. While police have not linked this crash to broader patterns, the event has prompted renewed discussions in the community about holiday driving risks.
As the department prepares for memorial services, Nicholson’s legacy is already being honored through shared stories and tributes. His Valor Award, bestowed for bravery in emergency responses, symbolizes the risks inherent in his role—situations where quick thinking can mean the difference between chaos and control. Colleagues recalled how he mentored newer officers, passing on lessons from his extensive experience to ensure the facility’s smooth operation.
The outpouring of support reflects the tight community within corrections work, where losses like this ripple through networks of families, friends, and fellow officers. Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks, whose administration oversees the department, issued a statement expressing condolences, calling Nicholson “a dedicated public servant whose service strengthened our community.”
Looking ahead, the investigation into the crash will likely provide more clarity on the circumstances, potentially informing safety measures for the roadways involved. For now, those who knew Nicholson focus on celebrating his life rather than the abrupt end. As one colleague put it in a private message shared widely, “Big Nic brought light to even the toughest days—he’ll always be our cornerstone.”
In a year that began with such a profound loss, the corrections community grapples with the fragility of new beginnings. Nicholson’s story, though tragic, highlights the human element behind the badge, reminding all of the quiet heroes who serve without fanfare until moments like his retirement party bring their efforts into sharp relief.