Mrs. Nolen
Miriam Nolen, 93, of Rockdale passed away on March 31, 2026, in Round Rock.
Miriam was born on June 10, 1932, in Appleby to Ira and Essie Riddle.
She married the love of her l i fe, Fred Nolen, on July 18, 1950, in Hollis, Oklahoma, and together they built a life centered on faith, family, hard work and love.
For 30 years, Miriam worked as a childcare provider, where she became affectionately known as “Nolie.” She was deeply loved by the children she cared for, their families and her coworkers. Her warmth, patience and spirited personality left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
In her younger years, Miriam enjoyed playing volleyball and softball and was known for her competitive spirit.
She approached life with determination and energy, never backing down from a challenge.
Above all, she cherished time spent with her family. Her fondest memories were made when everyone gathered together, sharing laughter, stories, meals and the love that bound them so closely together.
Miriam was known for her kindness, quick wit and unforgettable old-time expressions that could make anyone smile. She possessed a strength that carried her through life’s joys and hardships alike, and she shared that strength generously with those she loved.
She is survived by her children, Larry Nolen and wife Pam, Barbara Young, Donna Garza and husband John, and Teresa Mireles; 18 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.
She is also survived by family member, Sherry Nolen, and her special caregivers, Peggy Morrison and Melody Ayala, whose love and devotion meant so much to her.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Ira and Essie Riddle; her beloved husband, Fred Nolen; her daughters, Shirley Jean and Margarett Hirt; and her sons-in-law, Mike Young and Seth Hirt.
Miriam was the kind of Granny who made the world feel steady. Strong-willed at her core, she knew what she believed and was never afraid to speak her mind— always with just the right blend of grit and grace. She loved her family fiercely, a love that could be felt in every word, every hug, every prayer and every small act of care.
Most days, you could find her settled comfortably in her favorite chair, a Dr Pepper in hand, watching the birds outside as if they were old friends stopping by for a visit. It was her peaceful place, where she found comfort in the simple beauty of the world around her.
Miriam was strong, loving, faithful, and unforgettable— the kind of woman whose presence remains long after she is gone. Her legacy lives on in the family she loved so dearly, in the lessons she taught, the traditions she passed down, and the countless memories she leaves behind.
Though her family will miss her deeply, they take comfort in knowing she has been reunited with those who went before her and is now at peace in her heavenly home.
A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 6, at Milam County Cowboy Church in Rockdale.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Milam County Cowboy Church.
Heaven has gained a truly special angel, and her love will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her forever.