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Elsie Mae Nolan (Johnston)

Born: 2/18/1934
Died: 6/20/2026
Age: 92
Community: Grand Blanc, MI

Nolan, Elsie Mae (Johnston), age 92, passed away peacefully in her sleep at home in the early morning hours of June 20, 2026. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 27, at 11 AM at South Flint Tabernacle, 3450 S. Saginaw Street, Burton. A private interment will be held at Great Lakes National Cemetery, Holly. Visitation will be held on Friday, June 26, from 4–8 PM at Swartz Funeral Home, 1225 West Hill Road, Flint. Visitation will also be held on Saturday, June 27, from 10–11 AM at the church.

Elsie was born on February 18, 1934, in Buchanan, Michigan, to Noble and Mary (Nelson) Johnston. The oldest of three children, she grew up on the family farm in Hadley, Michigan. She graduated from Davison High School in 1952.

Elsie became a member of South Flint Tabernacle in September 1942 at the age of eight. She remained a faithful member for nearly 84 years, making her the church's longest-standing member. God was always first in Elsie's life. Her faith was the foundation upon which she built her life and was evident in the way she lived each day. She loved the Lord deeply, and that devotion was evident in the faithfulness, patience, and peace that characterized her life. A woman of quiet strength, Elsie allowed her faith to guide her words, actions, and relationships throughout her life.

Elsie was not only a member of the church but also served as the Sunday School secretary for nearly 50 years. She loved serving in that role and quietly worked behind the scenes to support the Sunday School ministry and those who served in it.

On June 1, 1963, she married Dewey Schell Nolan Jr. in Burton, Michigan. They were married for 55 years before God took Dewey home in 2018. After working outside the home early in her adult life, Elsie devoted herself to being a homemaker. If God was first in her life, her family was a close second. Everything she did was done with her family in mind, and she consistently placed their needs above her own. Whether caring for her children, supporting her grandchildren, or simply being present for those she loved, Elsie's life was marked by sacrifice, generosity, and unconditional love.

Elsie enjoyed gardening, birdwatching, taking walks, putting together puzzles, and talking about her family. She will be remembered most for her kindness, humility, and the genuine love she showed to others. She never spoke ill of anyone and always looked for the good in people and every situation. Her gentle spirit and thoughtful nature were a blessing to her family, friends, church family, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Elsie is survived by her sons, Greg (Ramona) Nolan of Rapid City, South Dakota, and Douglas (Jeana) Nolan of Grand Blanc, Michigan; eight grandchildren, Erika (Steve) Glasco, Mackenzie Nolan, Bradley Nolan, Ross (Erica) Nolan, Jaela Verdun, Caleb Nolan, Trevor Nolan, and Thaddeus Nolan; and four great-grandchildren, Tyler Glasco, Parker Nolan, Harper Nolan, and Adelaide Nolan.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Noble and Mary Johnston; her husband, Dewey S. Nolan; her daughter, Angela Verdun; and her brothers, James Johnston and Donald Johnston.

Contributions can be made to St. Jude.

For those who knew Elsie, there is no doubt where she is today. The Lord she loved and faithfully served throughout her life has welcomed her into His presence. The promise of Jesus has become her reality: "Today shalt thou be with me in paradise" (Luke 23:43).

Your condolences may be shared with the family at swartzfuneralhomeinc.com



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  Swartz Funeral Home & Cremation Center
1225 West Hill Road
Flint, MI 48507

Phone: (810) 235-2345

Web Site: http://www.swartzfuneralhomeinc.com

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Visitation
Date:   6/26/2026
Time:   4:00 PM
Visitation will be held on Friday, June 26, from 4–8 PM at Swartz Funeral Home, 1225 West Hill Road, Flint. Visitation will also be held on Saturday, June 27, from 10–11 AM at the church.

 
Funeral Service
Date:   6/27/2026
Time:   11:00 AM
 
Location:   South Flint Tabernacle
G-3450 Saginaw Street
Burton, MI 48529

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