Philip Ryan Nolan, 46, of Hernando, Mississippi, passed away on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at Baptist Memorial Hospital–Southaven, surrounded by the love of his family and comforted by his faith.
Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Benton Methodist Church. Funeral services will follow at 12:00 p.m.
Ryan was born on September 8, 1979, to George Timothy “Tim” Nolan and Nanette Zeigler Nolan of Benton, Mississippi. In July 2010, he married Bree Pepper, and they had two beautiful boys Colton and Clayton. He was a devoted husband, a proud and loving father, a faithful son and brother, and a man whose life reflected quiet strength, integrity, and love for others.
Ryan worked as a Port Engineer for Golding Barge Line, where he was respected for his skill, work ethic, and reliability. Those who worked alongside him knew they could depend on Ryan not only to keep boats and equipment running, but also to lend a helping hand whenever needed.
Ryan’s greatest joy on earth was his family. He treasured time spent outdoors with his boys—hunting, fishing, and working food plots at camp with his dad, brothers, nieces, and nephews. These moments were filled with laughter, hard work, and memories that will be carried on for generations. Ryan found joy in gathering loved ones, firing up the grill, and preparing meals for family and friends. He loved playing golf with close friends and valued the fellowship those times brought.
A dedicated father, Ryan coached both of his sons’ Little League teams and was present at their games whenever possible, leading by example through encouragement, patience, and love. As a teenager, Ryan competed in shooting sports and, along with his teammates, earned several state and national awards—an early testament to his discipline and determination.
Ryan is survived by his beloved wife, Bree Pepper Nolan; his sons, Colton and Clayton Nolan; his parents, Tim and Nanette Nolan; his siblings, Casey Nolan Watts (Jeremy) of Starkville, Mississippi, Patrick T. Nolan (Natalie) of Glen Allan, Mississippi, and Jacob Williamson (Ashley) of Lexington, Mississippi; his wife’s parents, Bill Pepper of Lexington, Mississippi, and Lynne Pepper of Southaven, Mississippi; and his sister-in-law, Bryndee Pepper Conwell of Huntington Beach, California. He also leaves behind nieces and nephews who loved him dearly: Neely and Lydia Watts; Dunlee Nolan; Baylor and Mary Mason Williamson; Seamus and Ronan Conwell. As well as, many aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear lifelong friends.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Joseph M. “Pat” and Dorothy Regan “Dot” Nolan of Benton, Mississippi, and Philip and Nannie Zeigler of Zeiglerville, Mississippi, and his uncles, Pat Nolan, Tommy Nolan, Paul Nolan, and Mike Nolan.
Honorary pallbearers will be Hayes O’Reilly, Johnny Murtagh, Harley Brown, Charlie Gilbert, Nick Pesce, Griffen Pesce and Dominick Pesce.
After the memorial service, family members and friends are invited to join the procession to Locust Grove Road, where Ryan’s ashes will be respectfully spread.
Though we grieve, we do so with hope, trusting in God’s promise:
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” — Phillipians 4:7
Ryan’s life was a gift, his memory cherished, and his faith fulfilled as he rests with his Lord.
