Rosemary (Billie) Nolley, 88, passed away on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Franciscan St. Francis Hospital.
She was born on September 19. 1936 at her family’s home in Johnson County, IN to Elza and Lotta (McMurray) Stephens.
Her family relocated to Jay County, IN during her younger years, but moved back to Boggstown, IN where she graduated from high school in 1954. She furthered her studies at Olivet Nazarene University (1958) . Indiana University (1960). Butler University and Butler University. She was a retired schoolteacher, having taught at Triton Central School and at Shelbyville Central Schools for three years and for MSD Perry Township Schools for 27 years. She was chosen twice to be the Perry Meridian Middle School Teacher of the Year, once by the administration and once by the parents.
Billie was a member of the Shelbyville First Church of the Nazarene and served the church in many ways, including going on mission trips, preparing meals, and encouraging others in their walks with the Lord.
She was married to James (Jim) Nolley and his children, James (Jim) Jr. and Linda, then became hers as well after their mother had passed away.
Survivors include a grandson who was raised as a son, Jon (Cris) Nolley, and their children, Tyler (Sierra) Nolley and Christian Thompson. They were her primary caretakers in her later years.
Also surviving are her son Jim (Cheryl) Nolley, grandchildren Sean Nolley, Scott(Katie)Nolley, and Kristen (Rob) Pate.
She is also survived by several great grandchildren and great great grandchildren, sister-in-law Martha Sue Stephens, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Many friends of her grandchildren called her “Granny”; and she was honored to be held in such high esteem.
Billie was predeceased by her parents Lotta and Elza Stephens, husband Jim, and daughter Linda. She was also predeceased by her siblings, Hazel (Clem) Deighn, Gay (Walter) Hazelwood, John (Marie) Stephens, Charles J (Joe) Stephens, Helen P. (Roy) Safewright; and great-great-grandson, Daniel Thompson.
Visitation will be from 10am to Noon, Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at First Church of the Nazarene, 2315 S. Riley Highway, in Shelbyville.
Funeral services will follow, with Rev. Dr. Steve Bohall and Rev. John Wessic officiating.
Interment will be at Asbury Cemetery in Morristown.
Services have been entrusted to Freeman Family Funeral Homes and Crematory, 819 S. Harrison St. in Shelbyville.
Online condolences may be shared with Billie’s family at www.freemanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
