Marjie Caroline (Harris) Nolley

Marjie Caroline Nolley, 90, passed away peacefully April 2, 2025 surrounded by her daughters. She was born February 28, 1935, in Dallas, Texas to parents Eddie B. and Dorothy (Mahan) Harris. After graduating from Woodrow Wilson High School, she married Gerald A. Nolley and moved to Mesquite, Texas. They were married 67 years and together they had 5 children; Stephen Nolley (Ruby), Marilyn Love (Jerry), Phillip Nolley (Janice), Cindy Stanley, and Diane Ludington (Dave).

When her children were in school, she attended college (baby squirrel in tow), earning a degree in early childhood education and was nationally recognized as a specialist in the field. She was active in St. Stephen United Methodist Church in Mesquite, Texas and First United Methodist Church, Hawkins, Texas. She retired to Holly Lake Ranch, Texas where she especially loved the wildlife. Her final year was spent in Hamilton, Illinois.

In retirement she and Gerald hosted several foreign exchange students and travelled the world. She had a passion for quilting and was active in several guilds. She left many beautiful handmade heirlooms. Her sense of humor, quick wit and love of adventure will live on in all who knew her. Her children greatly appreciate the outings to the arboretum, museums, and exposure to diverse cultural events. Crazy camping stories will always be part of family gatherings.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, son-in-law Jacky Stanley and grandson Allan Kear. She is survived by her children, grandchildren; Melissa Nedelcut (Adrian), Elizabeth Kear, Robin Whitely (Brett), Jennifer Nolley, Meredith Montgomery (Jake), Alexis Stanley (Mujahid Ali), Anthony Stanley (Delaney), Cameron Barker (Josh), Clayton Luna, and many great grandchildren. As well as honorary children, Star Rhodes (Chris), Amy Hudson (Don), and Christian Ernst (Sandra).

Special gratitude to her many caregivers, Geneva Kincaid, Traci Monroe Lewis, Jean Roberts and Lee County (Iowa) Hospice, Jessica and Trisha.

Her ashes will be interred next to her beloved husband in Wood County, Texas. Details for a late Spring service are forthcoming. You are encouraged to leave a memory or two on the Tribute Wall. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Strawberry Patch Child Care Center, Lee County Hospice or charity of choice.

Strawberry Patch Child Care Center, c/o United Presbyterian Church,102 Main St, Keokuk, IA 52632

Lee County Hospice Care, #3 John Bennett Dr, Fort Madison, IA 52627

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