OBITUARY: Carolyn Nolan

Carolyn “Joyce” Nolan passed away peacefully on the morning of February 23, 2026.

Born in Palmer, Tennessee on March 15, 1937, Joyce lived a life defined by faith, devotion to family, and a heart for children. She possessed a true God-given gift for nurturing and caring for young people, helping to raise and shape the next generation with patience, wisdom, and unconditional love.

Joyce dedicated more than 30 years of her life as a preschool teacher in Nashville, Tennessee, where she touched countless young lives. Her classroom was a place of warmth, structure, discipline, and encouragement, and many families were blessed by her steady presence and gentle guidance.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Noah White and Clercie White; her beloved husband, Harvey “Gene” Nolan; and her brothers, Eugene White, Crandol White, and Randol White.

She is survived by her loving siblings, O’dell Whitlow and Margaret Tuggle; her son, Kerry (Michelle) Nolan; and her daughter, Lisa (Nick) Painter. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Nicole Painter, Nolan (Jodi) Painter, Madison Nolan, and Mason Nolan, and a cherished great-grandmother to Bennett Painter. She also leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.

Joyce had a true heart of gold and was a servant to the Lord. She cared deeply for her parents throughout their lives and played an instrumental role in helping raise her four grandchildren, pouring into them the same love and guidance that defined her life. Her legacy lives on in the family she nurtured and the countless children whose lives she helped shape.

Her family will be holding a private service in Pryor Ridge, Tennessee. Arrangements will be coordinated between Partlow Funeral Chapel and Cumberland Funeral Home (Tracy City, Tennessee). PARTLOW FUNERAL CHAPEL (615)444-7007 OBITUARY LINE (615)444-7700

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This obituary was published by Partlow Funeral Chapel.

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