Thomas Eugene Nolan

Thomas Eugene Nolan was born October 16, 1931, in Gary, Indiana. He was one of five children born to Harry Gifford and Carrie (Kietzman) Nolan. Thomas grew up in Indiana and graduated with the class of 1950 from high school. In September 1951, Thomas enlisted into the United States Navy and served his country honorably for four years. For his faithful service, he earned several medals to include the Korean Service Medal (1 Star), United Nations Service Medal, China Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. Thomas was united in marriage to the love of his life, Frances Irene Dotson, on July 13, 1957, at Cane Creek Christian Church. Thomas and Frances shared together fifty-eight years before her passing November 6, 2015. They were blessed with two sons: Thomas Jr. and John and later blessed with two grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Thomas knew the value of hard work and worked hard to provide for his family. Throughout his working career, he worked as a lineman for an electric company and retired from AT&T after many years of dedication. Thomas liked to spend time outdoors, especially fishing, gardening, and mushroom hunting. In his older years, he enjoyed watching movies on his television. Most important to him was his family and making lasting memories with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Thomas was a man of strong faith and when his health allowed, he attended Salem Christian Church. Thomas also enjoyed the fellowship at Licking Christian Church. Before moving to Missouri, Thomas and Frances attended the First United Methodist Church in Olive Branch, Illinois. Thomas departed this life December 27, 2023, in St. Louis, Missouri, at the age of ninety-two years. Those left behind to treasure his memory include his loving sons: Thomas Nolan Jr. of Salem, MO and John Nolan and wife Paula of Salem, MO; grandchildren: John Adam Nolan and wife Tiffany of Salem, MO and Kelsey Prater of Viburnum, MO; great-grandchildren: Liam, Elsie, Brogan, Karson, Macy, and Eli; extended family and dear friends. Preceding him in death, wife: Frances Nolan; parents: Harry and Carrie Nolan; and siblings: Bill, Lois, Harry, and Ruth. Thomas was a loving and caring man with a gentle, kind-hearted soul, who would do anything to help somebody. He will forever missed by those who loved him most. Funeral Services for Thomas Eugene Nolan were held Tuesday, January 2, 2024, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Pastor Tim Hill officiating. Song selections played were “Amazing Grace”, “Precious Memories”, “I’ll Fly Away”, and “Old Rugged Cross”. Graveside Services with Military Honors were held Thursday, January 4, 2024, at the Cane Creek Cemetery, French Lick, Indiana, with Pastor Rick Mosher officiating. Serving as Pallbearers were John Nolan, John Adam Nolan, Jeff Shipman, Joe Shipman, Lucas Owens, and James Owens. Honorary Pallbearers were Liam Flowers, Brogan Prater, Karson Prater, and Eli Prater. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. Online Condolences may be left at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Thomas Eugene Nolan

October 16, 1931 - December 27, 2023