Mr. James Leon Nolen's Obituary
Funeral Service for Mr. James Leon Nolen, 89, of Alexander City, Alabama will be Saturday, January 31st 2026 at 1:30PM at the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Hillview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Saturday, January 31st 2026 from 11:00am to 1:00pm at Radney Funeral Home.
Mr. James Leon Nolen, known as Jimmy passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 27th surrounded by his loving family. A lifelong resident of Alexander City, Jimmy lived a long and meaningful life grounded in faith, love, and devotion to family. He believed deeply in God and carried that faith with quiet strength throughout his life, trusting in God’s guidance and grace through every season.
Those who knew Jimmy will remember him for his gentle spirit, steady presence, and his willingness to help anyone at any time. His faith shaped the way he lived showing compassion to others, valuing honesty, and finding peace in life’s simple blessings.
Born into a close family, Jimmy was a devoted son and brother. He was preceded in death by his adored wife of 60 years, Betty Jo Nolen; his parents; and his sister, Brenda Nolen Ryals. He now rests in the presence of the Lord reunited with those he loved.
He is survived by his beloved daughters: Christa (David) Nolen Leonard of Spring Hill, Florida; Suzanne Nolen Brittendall of Acworth, Georgia; and Jamie Nolen Gandy of Newnan, Georgia. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren: Alison (Dan) Aston, Dylan Leonard, Courtney Leonard, and Kaitlyn Brittendall; his treasured great-grandchildren: Tyler Rowe, Avery Rowe, Roman Aston, and Ella Aston; and his niece Shannon (Joe) Dean Clark, nephews Shawn Dean and Rob Ryals.
Jimmy dedicated many years of service to Russell Corporation and to the Alexander City Outlook in the Printing Department where he was known for his strong work ethic and good-natured personality. He enjoyed watching sports as he cheered on his favorite Teams, the Auburn Tigers and Atlanta Braves. He also loved walking the neighborhood with his dear friends Charles Shaw and Wendell White and had many conversations with his neighbor Marshall Griffin on the front porch, sharing stories and laughter that echoed through the streets.
Jimmy found happiness in the simple pleasures of life where he spent countless hours fishing on Lake Martin and appreciated the farm life with his horses, cows and garden. He loved taking his metal detector when visiting family in hope he would find that ‘pot of gold’. He also enjoyed to bird hunt back in the day with his favorite dogs, Devil and Zip.
While his passing leaves an emptiness in the hearts of those who loved him, they take comfort in the promise of eternal life and joyful reunion in Heaven. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who knew him. His memory will be treasured, his stories retold and his legacy will live on in the hearts of those he loved.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” ~ Matthew 25:23
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