Cephus Nolen Sr.

On July 1, 2024, at the very young age of 96, Cephus Nolen Sr. left this world on his own terms. He was born November 10, 1927, in Talladega, Alabama to Willie and Alberta (Shealy) Nolen. He was the middle child of 11 children with 5 older sisters and 5 younger brothers. At the age of 18, he came north to CT with 7 of his friends to work on a tobacco farm. He was a Korean War veteran in the army who served from 1951 – 1952. After the war he returned to CT and started work at Pratt & Whitney in East Hartford until his retirement in 1987. In 1957 he married Annie Monroe and they had 4 children, 2 boys and 2 girls. They were blessed with 60 years of marriage until Annie passed in 2017. Cephus Sr. was well known for his athletic abilities in a variety of sports. He was a former semi pro football player, played basketball, baseball & softball, snowmobiling, karate, bowling, fishing and even boxing. He was an avid golfer and played well into his late 80s. For many years he had previously volunteered at Keney Park Golf course. Cephus coached football and baseball, was a referee, umpire and briefly taught karate. He became a lifelong Boston Celtics fan when his hometown friend was drafted and played for the Celtics in the early 1950s.

Cephus and his wife provided guidance as foster parents to numerous boys in need for approximately 15 years. He was an ideal role model for many boys through his time coaching and mentoring.

Pratt & Whitney’s Aircraft Club Sports Complex renamed its gymnasium in his honor in 2011. At the dedication ceremony a plaque with his likeness was unveiled. Cephus is predeceased by his loving wife Annie (2017) and his oldest son Michael (1981). He is survived by brother Willie Nolen in Florida; son Cephus Nolen Jr. and wife Sally; daughter Yvonne Nolen; daughter Karen Nolen; daughter/niece Stacey Monroe; three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

He lived an amazing life and will be missed by everyone who knew him.

Newkirk and Whitney is entrusted with services 318 Burnside Ave East Hartford

Calling hours will be held on Thursday July 11, 2024 from 10AM-12PM. Interment will be held at Silver Lane Cemetery 1280 Silver Ln East Hartford on Thursday July 11, 2024 at 12:30PM