James Nolan

September 26, 1941 - January 11, 2024

Sunset Beach, North Carolina - Dr. James "Jim" E. Nolan, 82, of Sunset Beach, NC passed away on Thursday, January 11, 2024, in the Lower Cape Fear LifeCare Hospice House of Brunswick.

Born on September 26, 1941, in Raeford, NC, he was raised in Bennettsville, SC, the first of four children born to Jesse Franklin Nolan and Kathleen Allred Nolan. In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by a brother, Jesse Franklin Nolan, Jr.

Jim's love of the salt life began in the early 1960s as a Myrtle Beach lifeguard. He formed a partnership with his former employer and H&N Beach Service was approved by the city in 1975.As a Water Safety Instructor Trainer, Jim trained numerous lifeguards over the years. He was a former board member of Horry County Red Cross and a graduate of Leadership Grand Strand. Jim excelled in high school sports and set track records as a undergraduate at Gardner Webb. In 1966, he enlisted in the US Army. Jim was a member of the 101st Airborne, qualified for and completed Special Forces (Green Beret) training at Fort Bragg, NC; Medic training at Fort Sam Houston, TX; and completed Special Forces Underwater Operations School in Key West, FL. In 1969, Sergeant Nolan was honorably discharged as an A Team 6th Special Forces Medic. Jim returned to Gardner Webb University to complete a Bachelor of Science in Psychology; Master of Arts in Counseling at Appalachian State University; Educational Specialist at University of South Carolina and Doctor of Education at Nova Southeastern University. He was licensed with the National Board of Certified Counselors. Jim positively impacted the lives of many students. His career spanned 34 years in the South Carolina public school system as a teacher/coach (football, wrestling, track) at Myrtle Beach HS; Counselor/Administrator at Socastee HS; and Administrator/Principal at McCormick MS. A short-lived retirement with a move to North Carolina led to 9 more years as a Counselor/Administrator at Landis MS. It was then time to return to the coastal life and the Grand Strand area he loved. Jim enjoyed long walks on the beach no matter the weather, surf fishing, and local seafood.

Surviving are his loving with of 47 years, Leslie Nolan of the home; a son, Ryan Nolan of Piedmont, SC; a sister, Nancy Nolan, of Goose Creek, SC; a brother, Jerry Nolan (Lynn) of Taylors, SC, two nephews, Travis and Christopher; a niece, Holly.

Honoring Jim's wishes, no local service is planned. A private family celebration will be held later.

The family requests with gratitude that donations to be made in his name to the Lower Cape Fear LifeCare "SECU Hospice House" of Brunswick. (955 Mercy Lane, SE, Bolivia, NC 28422) with much appreciation to the staff and volunteers for the gentle kindness, professionalism and dignified care provided Jim during his final days. Online condolences are encouraged and may be sent to www.fulwoodfuneralservice.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Sun News on Jan. 28, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for James Nolan

8 Entries

Mike Fryer

October 27, 2024

he was my football and track coach and math teacher at mbhs

Chris Hollar

June 1, 2024

So sad to hear this news of Jim´s passing. Jim was my coach for many years at Myrtle Beach HS, and offered me a great opportunity to serve as one of his life guards at H & N. The 3 years working for him and the other men at H & N changed my life in so many ways, and Jim was a great mentor to me.

I´m sad that I did know of his passing from earlier this year, and hope his family is aware of the profound impact that Jim made in so many men´s lives over his years here. Rest in peace Jim, your good works and legacy lives on in the men that you led!

Brenda Kennedy

June 1, 2024

He was a great teacher, and had a great sense of humor. I always enjoyed his classes.

Rory

February 23, 2024

Jim was truly a great friend. He was my coach in high school, employer when I worked on the beach, and a true mentor. He really shaped my life in my younger days which made me the man I am today.

I really wish I could have seen him more, but life gets in the way. Jim you will be missed, but know this, I always think of you and the way you shaped my life. Rest in peace brother.

Rory Avant

Debbie Bullock Griggs

January 29, 2024

Coach Nolan was My Psychology teacher at MBHS His class was not only educational but always lot of fun and entertaining. The crazy field trips especially to the Funeral Homes!!! He so enjoyed telling us about his Military days. Those students who never had him miss a great teacher!! RIP Coach .....
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.

Duke Brown

January 29, 2024

Jimmy was a caring and wonderful man who contributed a lot to lifesaving. Always enjoyed teaching advanced lifesaving with him. He was a true mentor to many. Lifeguard for life RIP my friend

Kim Lewis

January 28, 2024

Jim was an awesome person. We had our horses at the same stables. We bought a horse from him also. Thank you Jim for being a friend and mentor.
Kim Gause Lewis

Larry Cecile

January 28, 2024

Knew and worked with Jim at the beach and Socastee High School. He was a special person and consider a friend. Thoughts and prayers to the family.

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