Noel J. Mickelson: The Life and Legacy of John Amos’ First Wife
Noel J. Mickelson is best known as the first wife of acclaimed actor John Amos, famous for his roles in Good Times, Roots, and The West Wing. However, Noel was far more than just the ex-wife of a Hollywood star. She lived a life full of artistic creativity, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to her family, even as she navigated the challenges of being part of a biracial marriage during a tumultuous time in American history. Let’s explore the life and legacy of this remarkable woman.
Early Life and Background
Noel J. Mickelson was born in the early 1940s in Estherville, Iowa, a small town in the American Midwest. Growing up post-World War II, Noel had a quintessential Midwestern upbringing. While information about her parents and siblings remains scarce, her background suggests a close-knit, rural environment that shaped her sense of independence and creativity.
Noel later pursued higher education at Colorado State University, where her passion for the arts blossomed. Here, she honed her skills as an artist and craftswoman, talents that would later define her career. Her love for horses also took root during these early years, emphasizing her connection to nature and a grounded lifestyle.
Noel J. Mickelson Quick Bio
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Noel J. Mickelson |
| Date of Birth: | Early 1940s (Exact date unknown) |
| Place of Birth | Estherville, Iowa, USA |
| Ethnicity | White / Caucasian |
| Nationality | American |
| Religion | Believed to be Jewish (unconfirmed) |
| Profession | Artist, Craftswoman, Equestrian |
| Spouse | John Amos (Married: 1965, Divorced: 1975) |
| Children | 2 (Shannon Amos and K.C. Amos) |
| Education | Colorado State University |
| Passion | Art, Craftsmanship, Horse Riding |
| Net Worth | Estimated $8 Million (at the time of her passing) |
| Year of Death | 2016 |
Meeting John Amos and Their Groundbreaking Relationship
Noel met John Amos while they were both attending Colorado State University. Their meeting marked the beginning of a love story that broke societal norms. In the 1960s, interracial relationships were still frowned upon, and segregation laws had only recently been overturned. Despite these challenges, Noel and John fell deeply in love, and their relationship grew stronger with time.
The couple married in 1965 when their union was considered controversial. Yet, they stood firm in their love and commitment to each other. Their marriage symbolized resilience and defiance against societal prejudice, making them quietly pioneers of change.
During their marriage, John still pursued his dreams of becoming a professional football player, playing for teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and the Victoria Steelers. Noel supported him through this phase, even as she balanced her career and responsibilities as a mother.
Life as a Wife and Mother
Noel and John Amos had two children, Shannon Amos and K.C. Amos. Shannon, born in 1966, became a wellness expert, entrepreneur, and advocate for plant medicine. She is also known for her inspirational social media presence, where she shares insights on personal growth and healing.
K.C. Amos followed in his father’s footsteps, pursuing a career in the entertainment industry. He has worked on several independent projects as an actor, director, and producer. While neither Shannon nor K.C. reached the same level of fame as their father, both have made their mark in their respective fields.
Despite their divorce in 1975, Noel remained a devoted mother to her children. She prioritized their upbringing, ensuring they had a stable and supportive environment to grow up in, even as John’s acting career began to take off.
Career and Artistic Pursuits
Noel J. Mickelson was an accomplished artist and craftswoman. Her creativity extended beyond traditional art forms, as she was also known for her work as an equestrian. Horses were a significant part of her life, and she became well-known in equestrian circles for her skill and passion.
In addition to her artistic pursuits, Noel strongly advocated individuality and creativity. Her creative talents gave her fulfillment and allowed her to amass a significant net worth. Noel’s wealth was estimated to be around $8 million by her passing, a testament to her hard work and dedication to her craft.
Challenges and Divorce
As John Amos’ acting career began to flourish, the demands of Hollywood started to take a toll on their marriage. John’s busy schedule often kept him away from home, creating strain in their relationship. Despite their best efforts, the couple decided to part ways in 1975, ending their decade-long marriage.
Although their divorce was amicable, the separation marked a turning point in Noel’s life. She chose not to remarry, focusing instead on her career and her children. Noel’s ability to navigate life after her divorce with dignity and strength remains an inspiring aspect of her legacy.
Later Life and Passing
In her later years, Noel lived a quiet, fulfilling life. She remained deeply connected to her artistic passions and her love for horses. Her legacy as an artist, mother, and trailblazer in breaking societal norms continued to inspire those around her.
Noel J. Mickelson passed away in 2016 at the age of 73. Her death marked the end of a remarkable life, but her contributions to her family and her influence on those who knew her live on. Her funeral was attended by loved ones, including John Amos and their children, who paid heartfelt tributes to her memory.
Legacy of Noel J. Mickelson
Noel J. Mickelson’s life is a testament to resilience, creativity, and love. From her groundbreaking interracial marriage to her accomplishments as an artist and mother, she led a life that broke barriers and inspired others. While much of her story remains under the radar, her contributions to her family and her legacy as a trailblazer continue to be celebrated.
Though her name may not be as well-known as her ex-husband’s, Noel’s story reminds us of individuality’s power and the importance of living authentically. Although she may no longer be with us, her impact endures through the lives she touched and the legacy she left behind.
FAQs
1. Who was Noel J. Mickelson?
Noel J. Mickelson was an artist, craftswoman, and equestrian, best known as the first wife of actor John Amos. She lived a creative and inspiring life, breaking societal norms as part of an interracial marriage during the 1960s.
2. When did Noel J. Mickelson pass away?
Noel J. Mickelson passed away in 2016 at 73, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, creativity, and dedication to her family.
3. How many children did Noel J. Mickelson and John Amos have?
Noel and John Amos had two children: Shannon Amos, a wellness entrepreneur, and K.C. Amos, an actor and director in the entertainment industry.
Conclusion
Noel J. Mickelson was a woman of many talents and strengths, from her artistic career to her role as a mother and partner. Her life story is an inspiring narrative of perseverance, creativity, and breaking societal barriers. While much of her life remains private, her legacy shines through her children and the values she upholds. Noel’s journey is a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the lasting impact of living a life true to oneself.
