Thelma Nolan

Thelma Jean Ellis Nolan was born in Jackson, Mississippi on April 27, 1951 and moved to Rockford Illinois in 1975. God called her home on November 5, 2025.

Thelma always showed compassion to others and treated everyone fairly.She tought us that tough times never last only strong people will continue to move forward. She will always be with us as our guardian angel, looking down from heaven guiding our very steps. The lord blessed her with so many gifts, but the one that stood out the most was the love she had for people. She never complained much about anything she couldn’t control, she just always kept a smile on her face and couldn’t wait until the weekends so she could play her music and dance. Our family is so grateful for all the fun times and cherished memories we’ve all shared with her. We just want to thank you mother for teaching us so much about life and for always having an encouraging word to brighten our moment. You have shaped us in more ways than you can imagine. We Love You.

Thelma overcame breast cancer, heart attacks,and other troubling illnesses. But through all the setbacks her love, and laughter remained the same. She will rest inside of so many people hearts and our family wouldn’t be what it is without your guidance,energy and wisdom. We love you always and we’re at peace knowing your soul is at rest, and we will see you again.

Thelma was a mother, grandmother, great grandmother, friend, sister, and aunt.

Thelma worked for Vitners Factory and the Off-Track Betting in Rockford. She also worked at Fred Grocery on West State Street for many years.

She will be in heaven with her mother Lillye Bell Ellis Ratliff, her brother Tommmy Ratliff, aunts, uncles, and nephew.

Thelma leave her legacy behind with three children. Cindy(Brian) Simmons , Leroy(Debbie) Nolan, Delia Swint (who everyone knows as Ann). She has 10 grandchildren: Dontrail Ellis, Damian Jones, Demarcus Ellis, Eddie Rogers, Travon Bryant, Reality Nolan, Uniquea Bridges, Niara Nolan, Leroy Nolan III  and Isaiah Bennett. She has 14 great grandchildren: Keamiri Nolan, Dontrell Ellis Jr, LaMariah Smith, Janiyah Milton, Marcus Ellis Jr, Kamiria Ellis, Demarcus Ellis Jr.,Demetrius Ellis, Shiloh Bryant, Shalimar Bryant, Shem Bryant, Jaden Rogers, Kaniyah Rogers,Cameron Bryant, and 1 great great grandchild that she was close to meeting named Zylo Maurice Willis. Siblings: Two brothers named Orlando Ratliff and James Ellis. Five Sisters named Velma Bennett (her twin sister), Dorothy Jakes, Marianne Hemphill, Deborah Sanders, and Cynthia Glover.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.