Obituary of Phillip Earl Nolen

Phillip Earl Nolen was born on December 11, 1949, to Lee and Katie Nolen in Benton Harbor, Michigan. Phil accepted the Lord as his Savior at an early age and belonged to Greater Community Christian Fellowship Church. He attended Benton Harbor schools and was very active in sports. His friends and family affectionately referred to him as “The Jet” because he was so good at baseball and track. He was even pursued by and offered a four-year contract to play for the Chicago Cubs, but was unable to because he was drafted by the United States Air Force. Phillip proudly served his country and quickly accelerated through the ranks to sergeant. He served for eight years including during the Vietnam war. Upon being honorably discharged, he returned to Benton Harbor and obtained gainful employment as a security force supervisor at Bendix Corporation (Bosch). He had a successful career there that lasted 16 years. Phil was actively involved in the Over 30 Club in Benton Harbor and participated in many social and philanthropic activities. It was at one of these social events that Phil met his current wife and relocated to Battle Creek. He worked a series of different jobs
before settling into retirement.

Phillip enjoyed spending time with family and watching old Western movies. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife of 28 years, Brenda Nolen. Children; Quanita (Jonathan) Rumbley, Chonda (Sherron) Rimpson, Trent Smith, Keisha Richardson, and Mikkia Smith, 9 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren; Brothers; Robert and Joseph Nolen. Sisters; Alice Faye McBride, Joann Bettison, and Luella Journigan. Special friends Horisce Young and Anthony Richardson and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Phillip departed this life on Sunday, December 4, 2022. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Devora Nolen.