Tom Nolen, age 83, of Albertville, Alabama, entered into his heavenly home on December 20 in Gulf Breeze, Florida. He will be laid to rest at Hillcrest Cemetery in Boaz, Alabama.
Tom was born on February 19, 1939, to Leonard and Helen Nolen in Piedmont, Alabama. As he always said, the Marines, his wife, and Jesus changed his life. He joined the Marines at the age of 18, and met his lovely bride to be, Joyce Odell, while stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. They married on November 15, 1958 and spent 64+ years together. He was a loving husband and caring father, willing to do anything to provide for and protect his family.
Tom was always an avid reader and learner, he taught his children to work hard, be honest, and always follow through on their commitments. He exemplified this in his life, receiving the highest rating for a wastewater operator in the state of Alabama before becoming a pipefitter who became known for being someone who always did the job the right way, requested by name by construction sites in several states.
In his early 40’s, Tom committed his life to Jesus, and served as a Deacon and Sunday school teacher at New Union Congregational Methodist Church in Boaz for more than 30 years.
Tom is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Joyce Odell Nolen; daughter Susan Story (Joe); son Steve Nolen (Ruth); 3 grandchildren, Matthew Nolen (Allison), John Nolen (Mary), and Angela Matasic (Mike); and 9 great grandchildren; niece Scarlet Terrell (Robert) and nephew Dennis Decker, along with many other nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held on Friday, December 23 from 10:00 a.m. followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 11:00 a.m. at the Albertville Memorial Chapel, located at 5011 US-431, Albertville, Alabama.
Albertville Memorial Chapel Directing
