James Francis Nolan

James “Jim” F. Nolan, age 90, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2022 in his home on Amelia Island, FL. Beloved husband of the late Mary (nee Lance); cherished father of Mike (Marme) Nolan, Tom (Nancy) Nolan and Paul (Heather) Nolan; loving grandfather of Patrick (Heather), Connor, Timothy, Gannon, Reid, and Stella; and great-grandfather of Luna and Ada.

Jim was born in Scranton, PA., and was preceded in death by his parents and his sister. After completing his undergraduate studies in Physics at the University of Scranton, Jim went on to receive a Ph.D. at the University of Pittsburgh and joined an Ohio-based company working at that time on developing the plasma TV. He holds numerous patents in areas of flat panel electronic displays and photovoltaic devices and processes. Later in his career, Jim joined a startup company where he led the team that developed the process for producing large area thinfilm cadmium telluride solar modules. This company became First Solar and is now a leading global provider of photovoltaic (PV) solar systems. He was a Board member there for many years and his contributions to First Solar were honored by naming the entrance hall to their research and development facility in Perrysburg, OH the Jim Nolan Legacy Hall.

He and Mary raised their family in Sylvania, OH, and then enjoyed a home on Catawba Island, OH, before retiring full time to Lady Lake, FL. Jim moved to Amelia Island, FL in 2021 – within minutes of family, enjoying their love, support, and time together.

With a very generous spirit, he enjoyed great books, music, golf, dancing, movies, playing cards, travel, and interesting conversation.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the American Cancer Society, or a cause of your choice.