Noel J. Mickelson is remembered as a passionate artist and equestrian, but she is perhaps most recognized for her marriage to the famous actor John Amos. Their relationship, which spanned the turbulent era of the 1960s, is a testament to their enduring love and defiance of societal norms. Here, we explore the life of Noel J. Mickelson, shedding light on her background, marriage, and legacy.
Early Life and Background
Noel J. Mickelson hailed from Estherville, a quaint city nestled in the heart of Emmet County, Iowa. The serene Midwestern setting of her upbringing provided a backdrop of simple pleasures and close-knit community values.
Despite the detailed chronicles of her later life, the specifics of her birth date and family background remain veiled in mystery. Concrete information about her parents and any potential siblings is notably absent, leaving a gap in the narrative of her early years.
Education and Meeting John Amos
Noel pursued higher education at Colorado State University, where she crossed paths with John Amos. Their meeting during their college years marked the beginning of a significant chapter in her life. At the time, Amos was passionately engaged in football, playing for the Colorado State Rams, while Noel’s field of study remains undisclosed. Their connection blossomed into a deep relationship, characterized by Shannon Amos, their daughter, as ‘love at first sight.’
A Marriage Against the Odds
In the 1960s, interracial marriages were met with significant societal disapproval, and Noel and John faced considerable obstacles. Despite the heightened racial tensions and legal barriers in several states, they decided to marry in early 1965. Their wedding, although not widely publicized, was a profound personal event, symbolizing their defiance against societal norms.
Their union was not just a personal milestone but also a significant socio-political statement. At the time, racial segregation laws in about 16 states prohibited marriages between black and white individuals. Although the exact location of their wedding is unclear, they likely married in a state where their union was legally recognized.
Their marriage faced legal challenges, and they experienced societal discrimination, including a harrowing incident in Arizona where a racist individual confronted them with a shotgun.
Life During Marriage
John Amos’s rise to fame began after their marriage. Initially making waves in the football field, Amos transitioned to acting in the mid-1970s. His role as James Evans, Sr. in the popular sitcom “Good Times” catapulted him to widespread fame. Throughout John’s journey in the spotlight, Noel remained his steadfast support, navigating the complexities of fame alongside him.
Noel and John were proud parents to two children, Shannon Amos and Kelly Christopher (K.C.) Amos. Shannon, born on August 5th, 1966, pursued a career in healing arts, wellness, and travel, creating successful ventures like Sumanah Luxury Travel. K.C., inspired by his father’s career, explored various facets of the entertainment industry, producing notable works such as “Tamales and Gumbo” and “Mercy for Angels.”
Divorce and Life After
After a decade of marriage, Noel and John Amos divorced in 1975. The reasons behind their decision remained private, but their relationship had clearly reached an impasse. Despite their separation, they both continued to focus on their careers and children. Noel chose to maintain a low profile post-divorce, dedicating herself to her passions and family.
John Amos remarried American actress Lillian Lehman in 1978, although their union was short-lived, ending in 1979 without any children. Meanwhile, Noel continued her pursuits in artistry and horseback riding, earning acclaim in both fields.
Passion for Art and Equestrianism
Noel was not just a supportive spouse but a fiercely independent woman with deep passions. She excelled in equestrianism, with her son, K.C., recalling her as the ‘best endurance rider this side of the Mississippi.’ Her daughter, Shannon, also highlighted Noel’s achievements as an architect, environmentalist, and feminist. Noel’s dedication to these pursuits showcased her unwavering determination and multifaceted talents.
Legacy and Passing
Noel J. Mickelson passed away in December 2016, surrounded by her loved ones. The specific cause of her death remains undisclosed, but her legacy endures through her children and the lives she touched. In her final moments, Noel expressed a desire to explore the world, a wish her daughter Shannon honored by taking her ashes on a global journey beginning in January 2017.
Financial Legacy
Noel’s estimated net worth in 2024 was around $8 million, reflecting her successful career as an artist, craftswoman, and equestrian. While she received a divorce settlement from John Amos, the exact figure remains undisclosed. Her financial success is a testament to her diverse talents and entrepreneurial spirit.
Conclusion
Noel J. Mickelson’s life is a rich tapestry of passion, resilience, and defiance against societal norms. Her marriage to John Amos, amid the racial tensions of the 1960s, stands as a symbol of love’s triumph over adversity.
Beyond her role as a supportive spouse, Noel carved out her own legacy as an artist, equestrian, and feminist. Her story, though marked by challenges, ultimately reflects a life lived with purpose and passion, leaving an indelible mark on those who knew her and those who learn about her journey.
