Willie Nolan

Willie Arthur Nolan, Sr., 91, of Elgin, Texas, passed away peacefully at home with his family on Friday, April 19, 2024.  He was the son of Willis and Martha Nolan, born on April 15, 1933, in Milam County, Texas.  He attended the public schools of Texas, only to name Booker T. Washington High School.  Upon completing the grade requirements, Willie enlisted in the United States Navy, serving in the Korean War.

Willie's life was guided by a strong Christian foundation. He embraced his faith at an early age and became a member of the Winn’s Memorial Baptist Church in Elgin, Texas. His faith was not confined to one place, as he continued to spread the word of God during his travels and even joined the Evangelist Missionary Baptist Church in Port Hueneme, California.  

Willie’s life was enriched when he was united in Holy Matrimony to Rosie Lee Gibson on March 27, 1963.  Their marriage was a testament to the power of love, joy, and countless cherished memories. Willie was a devoted husband and a proud father to Anthony, Donald, Wilma, Mary, Marilyn, Linda, Sandra, Willie Jr., and Angela.

Willie dedicated twenty years of his life to serving his country. His military career was marked by numerous citations and certifications, a testament to his bravery and commitment. After his service, he continued contributing to his country as a truck driver as a civil service worker in Point Mugu, California.

Willie and his family moved back to Elgin, Texas and reunited with Winn’s Memorial Missionary Baptist Church.   In 2003, Willie was ordained as a Deacon under the care of Reverend D. W. Townsend. He served faithfully until his health began to fail.   Willie continued to support the church and the pastor in many aspects until his death. 

Willie was a God-fearing man but loved Him dearly.  He was a caring family man who enjoyed family gatherings and holidays.  He embraced getting to know new people and could always put a smile on your face with his great sense of humor. Willie enjoyed taking care of his goats, naming them one by one.

Willie fell asleep in Christ on April 19, 2024. He was preceded by his parents, Willis and Martha Nolan; brothers Leroy, Preston, and Clarence; two sisters, Eula and Queen Esther; two sons, Anthony and Donald; and two daughters, Angela and Wilma. Willie was the last of his siblings. 

Willie leaves behind a priceless legacy that will be cherished by all who knew him: his loving and devoted wife of sixty – years, Rosie Nolan; his daughters, Mary and her husband, Willie Gunn of Las Vegas, Nevada; Marilyn and her husband, Luther Wilson of Elgin, Texas; Linda Johnson of Ventura, CA; Sandra and her husband, Willie Cottens of Oxnard, CA; and one son, Willie Nolan, Jr. of Elgin, Texas; twenty grandchildren, twenty-nine great-grandchildren, a special niece, Debra Mays, his buddy, William ‘Shorty’ Russell, and numerous nieces and nephews covering four generations and a host of other relatives and friends.

Serving with Grace and Honor as casket bearers: Deacons Johnny Jones, Ernin Hayden, Henry Bills, Lester Rivers, Randy Mays, Alex Dean, and Vernon Mitchell; Men of Honor: Brandon Wilson, Anthony Nolan, Jr., Kevin Gibson, Leshaun Cottens, Jackie Brown, Jr., Maurice Brown, Donald Gibson, Jr., Donovan Gibson, Donnie Gibson, and Jesse Williams.

 Willie Nolan will lie In-State at Elgin Funeral Home on Friday, May 3^rd from 1:00 PM until 5:00 PM.   A Celebration of Life will be held at Winn’s Memorial Missionary Baptist Church on Saturday, May 4^th at 11:00 AM with Reverend D.W. Townsend presiding. Interment will follow at Elgin Latin Cemetery.