Irene Highsmith Nolan, age 93, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her loved ones on Thursday, June 18th, 2026. She was born in Willacoochee, GA on May 27th, 1933, the daughter of to the late Ira and Mamie Highsmith.
Irene graduated from Willacoochee High School where she was known for her basketball abilities. Soon after graduation, Irene married the love of her life, the late Albert Sidney Nolan, in mArch of 1951. On January 27, 1957, they welcomed their greatest blessing, their first and only child, Don Isaac Nolan. Thirty years later , on April 15th, 1987, her son gave her her first and only granddaughter, Kelci Adona Nolan, followed by her first and only grandson, Sidney Abram Nolan, on February 23rd, 1989.
Irene took pride and enjoyed tending to her beautiful rose garden and her many fruits and vegetables. She also enjoyed spending time at the family pond with loved ones and was usually known for snagging the biggest catfish.
Irene was an incredibly strong and kind woman who always showed unwavering love to everyone she met. She faced life’s challenges with courage and grace, always putting the needs of others above her own. She was known for her beauty, inside and out, her gentle soul and courageous heart.
Her light and presence here on earth will be greatly missed but what a beautiful angel heaven has gained.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Albert Sidney Nolan, Parents Ira and Mamie Highsmith and her nine siblings.
She is survived by her son, Don Isaac Nolan, Grandchildren Kelci Adona Nolan and Sidney Abram Nolan, Great Granchildren Kadyn Sidney Nolan and Kamdy Kohler Nolan, and several Nieces and Nephews.
The family will receive friends on Monday, June 22, 2026, at Sims Funeral Home in Douglas, GA, from 6:00 PM until 9:00 PM.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at St. Paul Catholic Church in Douglas, GA, at 2:00PM with Father Saimel Perdomo officiating. Interment will follow at the Holy Family Catholic Church Cemetery.