Gary Dale Nolen

Gary Dale Nolen, age 88, of Marion, Illinois went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on October 27, 2026. Beloved husband of Judy Nolen (nee Helm), loving father of Kimberly Walker (Chris), Natalie Feldhaus (Mark), and loving grandfather of Jordan and Annaliese. Gary was a loving uncle, cousin, and friend to many.

Born on August 5, 1938, in Harrisburg, Illinois to Troy and Lucille Nolen, Gary was Southern Illinois through and through. He first went to school in a one room schoolhouse and graduated from Crab Orchard High School before eventually graduating from Southern Illinois University – Carbondale with both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. He followed in his father’s footsteps by becoming a teacher, beginning his teaching career at Crab Orchard High School. He and Judy married on May 1 st, 1964, and shared 62 wonderful years together.

Gary was energetic, industrious, earnest, and honest. In 1972, he and Judy bought Fox’s Flowers & Gifts in Marion and ran the business together for the next 31 years. For 30 years he taught global studies and driver’s ed at Marion High School and then worked at the flower shop after school until closing. Anytime he ran into former students, they always remembered him jumping on his desk.

In his well-deserved retirement, Gary remained active, golfing, going to The Hub, and having breakfast with friends each morning at Riley’s. He enjoyed being Papa to Jordan and Grandpa to Annaliese. He was dearly loved and will be deeply missed by all who had the joy of knowing him.

He was a longtime member of Third Baptist Church, and in recent years would watch First Baptist Church on TV. A Visitation will be held at Binkley-Ross Funeral Home (1704 N Court St, Marion IL 62959) on Friday, October 30, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and a funeral service at 1:00. Burial to follow at Rose Hill Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made in honor of Gary Nolen to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.