Sarah Frances Nolan, 91, mother of WDAS Radio personality Patty Jackson
Sarah Frances Nolan, 91, formerly of Philadelphia, a seamstress and the mother of WDAS radio personality Patty Jackson, died Tuesday, Oct. 27, of complications from Alzheimer's disease at her home in Wyncote.
Sarah Frances Nolan, 91, formerly of Philadelphia, a seamstress and the mother of WDAS radio personality Patty Jackson, died Tuesday, Oct. 27, of complications from Alzheimer's disease at her home in Wyncote.
Born in South Philadelphia to Samuel and Carrie Jones, "Pat," as she was known, graduated from Bartram High School and Apex Beauty Academy.
In 1941, she married George Johnson, and the couple had two daughters before divorcing. George Johnson died in the 1980s.
She later married Robert A. Nolan. The two had a son and daughter. He died in 1989.
Mrs. Nolan's life was centered around her Christian faith, which she also instilled in her children. The Nolans were members of the Greater Mount Olive A.M.E. Church. Later, they joined Consolation Baptist Church.
Mrs. Nolan was a master seamstress, starting at the Keystone Clothing Co. She also worked for the Philadelphia Quartermaster Depot and, finally, at the United Exposition Service Co.
At age 70, she delighted in serving as the receptionist for her granddaughter's hair salon.
Mrs. Nolan was all about family and friends. She was committed to being the supportive matriarch whose strength grounded family members during times of trouble.
"People loved being in her company because of her pleasant demeanor and easygoing disposition," her relatives said. "She loved to cook. We were a typical South Philly family. Her door was always open."
Mrs. Nolan's idea of fun was to whip up soul food with a gourmet flair for the many holiday affairs and family celebrations that she hosted. Her apron and her recipes now pass to Patty Jackson.
Besides her daughter, she is survived by daughters Norma Johnson and Darlene Johnson; a son, Robert Nolan; four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; a great-great-grandchild; and two sisters.
A viewing from 8 to 10 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 3, is to be followed by a 10 a.m. home-going celebration at Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church, 230 W. Coulter St., Germantown. Burial is private.
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