To have known Brian Douglas Noland was to know a life well lived. On June 21, 2024, at the age of 66, a son, husband, father, grandfather and friend left Fayetteville, Arkansas to take his place in heaven, where Jesus greeted him with “well done, good and faithful servant” and possibly, “Woo Pig Sooie.”
On June 10, 1958, Brian was born in Fayetteville to Paul R. Noland and Eunice C. (Hazenfield) Noland, the final of the four notorious Noland brothers. Brian loved a family reunion, he was the organizer and attender of many – his most recent being on the other side of eternity with his loving parents and two older brothers, Steve and Bob Noland.
They say home is where the heart is, and Brian followed in his parent’s footsteps as a dedicated citizen of Fayetteville, the town he called home for the majority of his life. He was a proud Bulldog (class of ‘76) and Razorback (class of ‘81).
Brian graduated from the University of Arkansas with an industrial engineering degree, and he later committed his professional career to AT&T for 31 years. He was a devoted member of Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity where he served as the summer rush chairman traveling the state recruiting new members. But his claim to fame was securing his future wife the title of Lambda Chi Sweetheart.
Married on August 1, 1981, Ann Elizabeth (McKenzie) Noland and Brian’s love is much like the lyrics to their song, Always and Forever. “Each moment with you is just like a dream to me that somehow came true and I know tomorrow will still be the same ‘cause we’ve got a life of love that won’t ever change.”
Their love stood up to their vows. In health, they had two beautiful children, John Paul McKenzie Noland married to Brianna Noland and Emily Noland Moss married to Thomas Moss.
In sickness, Ann and Brian fought together – standing on the foundation of hope and confidence in a Sovereign God.
Brian had many names, but one of his most cherished was B.B. which stood for Big Boy. This title was most adoringly used by his grandchildren: Foster Noland (6), Janie Noland (1) and Baby Moss (Due January 2025).
For 17 years, Brian had cancer. But it did not define him. Nor did it defeat him. Never once did a medical diagnosis cause him to waver from his faith. His life and his passing bore witness to the power of a steadfast trust in a good Father.
A celebration of life will be held 10 a.m., Tuesday, June 25th, at Central United Methodist Church in Fayetteville with Reverend Jennie Williams officiating.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Washington County Historical Society.
To sign the online guest book please visit bernafuneralhomes.com.
Mrs. Joyce’s class during the 1969-70 school year at Root Elementary.
Fayetteville Class of 76 