James "Ron" Nowlin

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of James “Ron” Nowlin, a dedicated public servant and cherished family member, who left us on his late mother’s birthday January 13, 2025, at 78 years of age.

Born on June 20, 1946, in the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois, to Christine L. Warr and Homer L. Nowlin, Ron embodied a lifetime of dedication, service, and honor. Ron served our nation in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War.  When he returned home he drove for the Chicago Transit Authority, became a licensed beautician/barber, and served 20+ years with the Chicago Police Department.

He began his time with the United States Navy in 1964, stationed out of Pearl Harbor, (Hawaii), and served on the U.S.S. Renshaw until 1967, as a Signalman Seaman.

On March 3, 1965, the Renshaw left Pearl Harbor with Destroyer Division 252 to reinforce naval forces in the South China Sea. As a Signalman Seaman (SM), Ron specialized in communication, including transmitting, receiving, encoding, decoding, and distributing messages using flag hoist signaling, semaphore, and Morse code. 

Ron devoted his professional life to safeguarding others as a police officer. His career was marked by an unwavering commitment to justice and the well-being of his community. In every role he undertook, Ron was guided by a strong moral compass and a deep sense of duty. Though his career achievements were many, it was perhaps his steadfast loyalty and integrity that left the most lasting impression on those who knew him.

Ron is survived by his beloved family, including his seven children, Shawn, Shimond, Lisa, Chris, Kataka, Erinn, and Phillip, who will carry forward his legacy of strength and virtue, three grandchildren, Khalil, Sarah, and Adaja, his sister Doris L. Brown, nephew Laurance T. Brown (Kyra) of Chicago, Illinois.  His influence and guidance extended beyond his immediate family, enriching the lives of all who had the privilege to know him.

His memory will be honored with a Military Graveside Service, taking place at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona in Phoenix. Scheduled for 11 am on Monday, January 27, 2025, this ceremony will commemorate Ron’s life and service with the dignity befitting his character.

In memory of Ron, we invite you to reflect on his exemplary life and the countless ways he impacted his community. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all those who knew and loved him.