LaNelle Ratledge Nolley

Mrs. Lanelle Ratledge Nolley, a devoted educator and cherished member of her community, passed away on October 14, 2025, at the esteemed White Oak Manor in Shelby, North Carolina. She was born on August 14, 1939, in Rowan County, NC, and dedicated herself to shaping young minds through her illustrious career as a school teacher, spanning an impressive 42 years.

LaNelle's journey through life was marked by a profound commitment to education, a calling to which she responded wholeheartedly after receiving her Bachelor's degree. Her influence extended far beyond the classroom; she embodied the ideals of patience, kindness, and steadfastness, nurturing generations of students who would carry forward the lessons she instilled in them.

LaNelle is survived by her beloved family, including her sons, Dean Nolley and his wife Heidi of Cumming, GA, and Caleb Nolley and his wife Cindy of Augusta, GA. She found joy in her role as a grandmother, leaving behind cherished memories with her grandchildren, Alex, Katie, and Grant Nolley. Additionally, she will be remembered by her sister, Ann Spry of Cooleemee, NC, who shared in the tapestry of family love and laughter.

LaNelle's legacy is further colored by the absence of those who have gone before her. She was predeceased by her dear husband, C.H. Nolley, whose love and partnership enriched her life. She also mourned the loss of her son, Steve Nolley, her father, Ephriam Pinkney Ratledge, and her mother, Nellie Propst Ratledge. The bonds she shared with her siblings, including her brothers Henry Arthur Ratledge and John Fillmore Ratledge, will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew them.

As we gather to honor and celebrate LaNelle's extraordinary life, we invite friends and family to join us at Sharon Church, located at 871 College Ave, Shelby, NC 28152. A visitation will be held on October 19, 2025, from 1:30 PM to 2:45 PM, followed by a Funeral Service at 3:00 PM and culminating with her burial at 4:00 PM. The services will be graciously officiated by Rev. Mark Lee, and pallbearers will include Grant Nolley, Alex Nolley, Mark Hancock, Ephriam Ratledge, Daniel Talbert, and Mark Davis.

LaNelle's spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched, and her legacy as an ardent advocate for learning and family will always be remembered. As we bid farewell to this remarkable woman, we cherish the indelible mark she has left on our lives.

In lieu of flowers/trees, Donations may be made to Sharon Church 871 College Ave. Shelby, NC 28152

To sign the guest book, please go to www.clevelandfuneralservices.com.

A service of Cleveland Funeral Services & Crematory, Inc. 2518 West Dixon Blvd., Shelby, NC 28152 704-487-5811