In Loving Memory of Nicole Ann Motley-Cossman

Nicole Ann Motley-Cossman was born on March 18, 1982, in Waukegan, Illinois, to her parents, Louis Widner and Myrene Rost. She passed away on October 31, 2026.

Nicole was a sassy, fun-loving, dedicated woman who was spontaneous and full of life. She had a personality that was impossible to forget, a sense of humor that kept everyone laughing, and a gentle sarcasm that was uniquely hers. She knew how to bring laughter into a room and leave people with memories they would cherish forever.

Nicole enjoyed sitting around a campfire, listening to music she could connect with, watching supernatural television shows, and getting lost in her favorite crime documentary series. She appreciated the simple moments and found joy in the things that spoke to her heart.

For more than six years, Nicole battled ALS. Through the many challenges that came with her journey, she continued to show strength and determination, never allowing the disease to take away the spirit that made her who she was.

Her greatest pride and legacy were her nine children: Dylan Schnider, Riley Schnider, Madison Grigsby, Mackenzie Franco, Lyric Cossman, Navaeha Cossman, Josalynn Cossman, Nakiah Cossman, and Victoria Erickson.

She was also a loving Nana to seven grandchildren: Davion Fuller, Haze Schnider, Emberleigh Grigsby, Enoch Franco, Elias Franco, Emmanuel Grigsby, and El'ani Grigsby, with one more precious grandchild on the way.

Nicole is survived by her parents, Louis Widner and Myrene Rost; her siblings, Michelle (Kevin) Beissert, Tonya (Scott) Hawley, Jennifer (Matt) Johnson, Stacy (Luther) Hornback, Sarah (Jacob) Reid, and James (Hannah) Rost; as well as several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Nicole will be remembered for her strength, spontaneous spirit, contagious laughter, gentle sarcasm, and the love she had for her family. Her journey may have ended, but the memories, laughter, and love she leaves behind will live on through all those fortunate enough to have known her.

So save her a seat by the campfire, play a song that speaks to the soul, and remember her with a laugh.

Forever our sassy girl. Forever loved. Forever missed. Never forgotten.

Funeral Arrangements

Funeral services will be held at Sawyer-Pickett Funeral Home in North Vernon, Indiana on Friday, November 13, 2026 at 1:00 PM. Burial will follow at Hopewell cemetery with a dinner afterward for close friends and family. Visitation will be from 12:00 PM until the time of the service.