DAYS Star Stephen Nichols Pens Heartfelt Tribute To His Mother-in-Law

Stephen Nichols considers himself fortunate to have an amazing family, but the Days of our Lives actor, who has played Steve Johnson for over three decades, shared some sad news over the weekend.

Stephen Nichols Says Goodbye To His Mother-In-Law

On Instagram, Nichols announced that his mother-in-law, Betty, passed away at the age of 95, and the actor posted a loving tribute to the woman he called his “Mama.”

“In the summer of 1982, I had an amazing streak of good fortune,” he wrote. “I met my future wife and was welcomed into her family with warm and open arms. Lisa’s Mother, Betty made me feel and let me know, almost immediately, that I was one of hers. She considered me a son, and feeling that, I considered her a mother.”

Nichols posted a video montage of his mother-in-law’s life, showing a collection of photos taken throughout the years.

“Being a part of this clan has changed me in ways I can’t describe,” the actor continued. “The unconditional love with which Betty raised her children has turned out wonderful, confident and loving people. They are the best people I know and watching them, growing with them these past forty years has helped me to be a better person.”

In her later years, Betty had some issues, and Nichols pointed out the care his wife, Lisa, and her four siblings gave her over some difficult years is a testament to the love the entire family had for her.

“We would do anything for her and even though she knew it, she asked for very little,” he wrote. “My dream of having a good life for my children and myself, a life full of love and laughter came true when I became a part of this family.”

Betty had a full life. Nichols revealed that she was a seamstress who sewed dresses, robes, and traditional Swedish outfits.

“But she gave us so much more than her time and talent,” Nichols says. “Mom was incredibly intelligent, wise, and witty. She was the Queen of the one-liners. Always patient and honest, and even when she disagreed, she found a gentle way to tell you.”

Betty is survived by five children, 14 grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. “I can’t imagine these past forty years without your love, Mama,” Nichols ended. “I am eternally grateful to you. I love you and you will always be in my heart.”

Among those sending Nichols thoughts and love were castmates Kristian Alfonso (ex-Hope Williams Brady), Tamara Braun (Ava Vitali), and his on-screen, long-time love Mary Beth Evans (Kayla Brady Johnson). SoapHub joins them in wishing Stephen Nichols and the rest of Betty’s family our condolences.

Days of our Lives (DOOL) airs weekdays on NBC. Check your local listings for airtimes. For more about what’s coming up in Salem, check out all the latest that’s been posted on Days of our Lives spoilers, and for an in-depth look at the show’s history, click here.