Obituary of Dr. James Noland Jr.

Dr. James (Jim) Alfred Noland, Jr, 96 years old, of Osage Beach Missouri, passed away on July 26, 2023.

He was born on February 2, 1927, to James and Martha Noland of Mack’s Creek. He attended school in a one-room schoolhouse, where he learned to value education and make it a cornerstone of his life. He graduated from Macks Creek High School, and went on to receive his bachelor’s from Southwest Missouri State University, later his master’s, and ultimately his Doctorate in Education from the University of Missouri, Columbia. He was very proud of having earned the title of Doctor, causing many to address him affectionately as “Doc.”

Like many of his generation, including his three older brothers, he served his country proudly in WWII. At eighteen years of age he became a sniper for the Army Air Corps in the Pacific theater. Being tasked with informing combatants that the war was over meant that he was essentially thrown into guerilla warfare in the jungles of the Philippines. His mother, Martha, stayed on her knees for years, praying all four of her boys safely home. 

After returning from the war, he continued in his passion for education, as a teacher, principal, professor, Superintendent of Schools, and Commissioner of the State Department of Higher Education. In 1956, he was elected to the Missouri State legislature. He served as State Representative for the 140th District for 8 years prior to being elected to the Missouri State Senate where he represented the 33rd District for an additional 8 years.

It was during his time as State Representative that he met Janice Pueser who would become his beloved bride of 59 years. She was a beautiful young attorney serving as bill drafter in Legislative Research. He was immediately smitten and the couple was married the following March in the Rotunda of the State Capitol. He became the proud father of three daughters, Claire, Cynthia, and Cecilia, 10 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren (and counting), all who lovingly referred to him as Papa.

Although he attempted to retire, those who knew him best knew he never really did. His days were filled with family, politics, ranching, and travel to distant lands. He never ceased to stay engaged in Missouri politics and remained a staunch advocate for conservative policies and patriotism throughout his life. 

He was predeceased by his wife, Janice, who passed away in July 2017. He is survived by his three daughters, ten grandchildren, and thirteen great-grandchildren. Although, Senator, Representative, Doctor, and Papa were impressive titles through his life, the one he cherished most is the title he carries with him into this next journey, Redeemed by his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Visitation to be held at Hedges-Scott in Camdenton on August 4th from 1:00pm – 3:00pm with the Service to be held at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his memory to either Gideons International or Shriners Hospital for Children, as both organizations were close to his heart.