BIOGRAPHY

Leta Nolen was born in Vilonia, Arkansas, USA, on 17 February 1905. Her parents were William Frank Emison (1863–1936) and Larah Ann Wright (1871–1940). She had five siblings: William Floyd (1887–1972), Esther Mae (1890–1976), Lottie Orene Williams (1893–1986), George Forrest (1895–1988), and Mary Katy.

At some point, she married James Frederick Nolen (1897–1970). They had no children. Leta lived in North Little Rock in the home she and her husband built in the 1940s. At the age of 103, she moved to Robinson Nursing & Rehabilitation Center out of necessity.

Well into her late 90s, Leta remained an enthusiastic and skilled bridge player, often outplaying much younger opponents. She drove her Ford Maverick until the age of 100, only giving up driving after a minor fender-bender. Leta also had a lifelong love for horse racing in Hot Springs. Her great-nephew, Larry Emison, accompanied her to the races many times during her 90s—and even when she was 100.

Leta Nolen passed away in North Little Rock, Arkansas, USA, on 28 March 2017, at the age of 112 years, 39 days.

RECOGNITION

On 21 June 2016, following the passing of Dorothy Wagner, she became the oldest known living person in Arkansas.

Nolen’s age was validated by the GRG on 10 February 2017. The validation was later recognized by LongeviQuest.

ATTRIBUTION

* Leta Emison Nolen – FindAGrave

* Leta Emison Nolen Obituary – The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

GALLERY