Sister Artis Mae Nolley Thomas died July 3. The daughter of the late Deacon Irvin Nolley and Mrs. Clara Mae Benton Nolley, she was born in Jasper County in 1921. She was educated in the Newton County School system. Mrs. Nolley joined Sims Chapel Baptist Church and served as the church secretary for 34 years. She was a member of the Mother Board and served for several years as president of Sims Chapel Missionary and secretary of the Nolley Family Reunion Club. She was Past Worthy Matron of Golden Line No. 204 OES. Mrs. Thomas was a member of many social clubs and served in many different occupations. She taught school for five years and retired from the Newton County School system after 27 years as a cafeteria worker. She was preceded in death by parents, husband Mr. Fred Thomas, sister Ms. Vassie Hudson and brothers John, Governor and Cleo Nolley.

Surviving are brother Mr. Leon Nolley; sisters Ms. Myrtis Smith, Ms. Bernice Thomas, the Rev. Lenora Williams; godson Mr. John (Sonny) Smith; brother-in-law Mr. Johnny Williams; devoted nephew Darrell Nolley; devoted nieces Gwen and Linda; dear friends Ms. Helen Hill, Ms. Gloria Nolley; other nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. July 8 at Sims Chapel Baptist Church with the Rev. Cecil Rozier officiating. Interment followed in the church cemetery.