Merle Nolan

Hal, I am ever so sorry to learn of the passing of your mother. I'll always remember her visit at my parents home keeping us all entertained, especially my father, while we were sitting around the breakfast table. You certainly were blessed by her influence and I'm sure she was extremely proud of your accomplishments and philanthropic nature. My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time at this tender time. May your memories bring you comfort. Love, Meredith Foster Russell

Mary and Hal, I am so sorry for your loss. Your mom was 94 and lived a very full and very fun life, but still it is difficult to lose a parent at any age.

I remember the first time I met Merle. It was in 1966, and Hal and I had been dating for a few months. I thought she was just the most elegant Southern belle; and she introduced me to a world I had never known, one of country clubs, ladies' luncheons and shopping sprees. Some of the funniest stories in my memory bank have to do with Merle, but, unfortunately, most of them are not suitable to be printed in this guest book, so I'll just have to keep them imprinted on my heart. She and my mom had some really fun times together over the years, and I can't imagine that Heaven will ever be the same with the two of them up there together! After they made you, Merle, they broke the mold. Thanks for the memories.

Mary and Hal, My love and prayers are with you and your family during this sad time with the loss of your mother. I know the special and loving relationship you had with her has left you with many precious memories. I, too, have fond memories of Merle. Mary, I think of all the fun times we shared with your mother during the time you and I lived together. She was truly a classy lady, and her memory will have a special place in the hearts of every one who knew her.

Dear Hal/Mary, Sorry we could not share our grief for the loss of our
Mom, since they died four days apart. Merle left a lasting impression on me from the first day we met. She walked in a room and
expressed charm, humor and royalty.
Her strong personality and love for
life has certainly past on to both
of you. I will always remember
and pray for her. A great lady who
will be missed.

Hal & Mary,
I met your Mom in 1971 when I was but 18 years old. I had the opportunity to see her off and on for about 35 years. Merle always had a smile on her face,a kind word or greeting for everyone,and a funny story or incident to tell you about.She was the epitome of a real southern lady with great charm,class and elegance. The last time I saw her was in 2004 and we had a few drinks and a great many laughs. My fondest memories will always be her wonderful southern drawl and her great laugh. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to both of you and your entire families over your loss. I think we all can agree that Merle lived a good and full life. She had many blessings to be thankful for.May God bless all of you during this time of sorrow.God speed to you Merle, may your journey be short and your new life everlasting.

I know that we are all feeling such a void left by Merle's passing. She was a light, a beacon if you will, for many. As my aunt, I have known her for over 60 years. She was a person who was always there for her friends and family giving support and a sincere listening ear. She lovingly cared for me over the years. I spent many nights with Mary and Hal when we were children, and she was very supportive in later years as I cared for my mother. I never knew anyone who met her Merle that was not touched by her friendship and her zest for life. We had laughs together over the past few years of how she could not remember some things. She would say, "did I tell you that before?", and then just laugh. I will never forget Mary's story of how she took her to the funeral of one of her friends and as soon as they left she asked Mary "now who was that?" She laughed at life and made the most of it. She left an impression on all of us that we will remember always with love. I love you Aunt Merle. Thank you for being you.

Dear Merle, we know you are out there somewhere in a brand new dress, looking lovely, smoking a cigarette, laughing, and holding court. We are indeed grateful for the good times, like Kelly's wedding when we all posed with big fat cigars for the family photo. You were one of a kind, and we will really miss you. Since some members of the family are offline, I just included everyone at the end. You know we will all remember you. I also want to tell you that your children are wonderful, yes, and grandchildren, and great grandchildren, too. Love lives forever! Cyndie, Bo, Tommy, Earlene, Beau, Sloane, Chris, Greg, Meredith, and Shelby.

My memories of Merle are so sweet. When I first moved to Pensacola in the late 60's, she was the hostess at King's Inn and always made her Mary and me so welcome for our "girls night out". Back in those days women didn't go out without a date much. She mothered me in those years and I will always have a special spot in my heart for her kindness and caring for me and my daughter.
Fondly remembering, Mary Rabe

I first met Merle on Pensacola Beach when I was a young Midshipman in 1961. She invited me and a couple of my Midshipman buddies for supper and Bookie would bring some steaks. We have stayed in touch for the past 45 years and one of my favorite memories was when I called and said I was coming thru Pensacola and could I take her to lunch. She had just celebraed her 91st birthday. When I arrived she was standing in the parking lot, with one hand on her hip, tapping her foot, wanting to know what took me so long? We went to lunch with the top down! I loved Merle just like a part of my family. What a one of a kind person the world has lost. Fair winds, and following seas. we will miss you!!

Jim and I had the pleasure of meeting Merle on several occasions over the years. She was a fine example of a southern lady, full of grace and spunkiness. Her memory lives on in her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Barbara & Jim Kale

Thank you for introducing me to Merle, she brought more joy to my world than you'll ever know. I am blessed to have you all as friends and will always carry the best memories of Merles stories with me throughout life.

It is so difficult to lose you, mom. You will always live in our hearts and minds. You have left us with so many stories and memories. Your 94 years have seen several wars, many inventions,and our ability to put men in space. But, whether good or bad, you always loved life and loved to laugh. It was a lesson for all of us. We will always remember that. Jo and I will love you forever.

Mom and I had some good times this past year at the nursing home. We grew closer. Here are two photos I took of her. One I call her "glamour shot" sitting in the courtyard smoking. The other was when she represented Baptist Manor in the nursing home pageant. I miss her.

I am so sorry to read that your Mother/Grandmother has passed. She was very good friends with my Grandmother many years ago, Elizabeth St.John. I used to love to go with my Grandmother to visit Merle at her apartment and her Granddaughter, Kelly, came over too. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

your Mom was a very special lady.We had so many wonderful coversations. She was such a delight. I lived above her at Spyglass . My thoughts are with you. She was proud of you both and the grandchildren.

There are no words appropriate to truly describe Merle, who was 94 years YOUNG. She has been my best friend, confidante, part of my "family" since the day we met over 7 years ago. She is beautiful in every way and "sparkled" wherever she was and to whom she met, they were attracted to her like a magnet. I love you, Merle. I love you, Mary and Hal and family.
Your mom will forever live in my heart. Jo Ellen

we are so sorry for your loss. may god bless you in this time of sorrow.