Jay T. Nolan

Jay T. Nolan of Harvard, IL, passed away at the age of 75, surrounded by his loving family on March 4, 2025. He was born December 30, 1949 to Daniel and Mary (Kelley) Nolan. He married Sandy (Thayer) Nolan October 1, 1977.

Jay attended St. Joseph Catholic School, Marian Central High School and graduated from Harvard High School, Class of 1968.

Jay enlisted in the Navy in March of 1969. When he returned home from service, he took over his family’s business, Harvard Ready Mix along with his brother David Nolan.

Jay was a licensed pilot and enjoyed many trips with family and friends.  He also enjoyed scuba diving, fishing, hunting, woodworking and spending time with family.

Jay wore many hats. He was a member and President of the Illinois Ready Mix Association, President of the Harvard Chamber of Commerce, and member of the American Legion Post #265 in Harvard, IL. He served as Mayor of Harvard and was also on the City Council and Zoning Board. He was one of the Co-Founders of Rush Creek Distilling and loved giving tours.

Jay spearheaded the refurbishing of Harvard’s Ayer Street Business District, as well as the building of the Harvard Senior Center and Food Pantry.

Jay is survived by his wife Sandy, son Adam (Debra) Borgeson, daughter Andrea “Annie” (Daniel) Howe and son Shaun (Melissa) Nolan, four grandchildren Magen Greaux, Daniel Howe, Callie Nolan and Oliver Nolan, brother David (Lorraine) Nolan, sisters Jeannie Palmer and Marcy (Michael) McCullough, and many nieces and nephews.

Jay was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Michael, sister Jolita and brother-in-law Morey Palmer, nephews Brian Brooks, Kevin McCullough and Daniel Nolan.

Jay’s Celebration of Life will be held March 21, starting at 2pm at Rush Creek Distilling.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Legion Post #265, PO Box 36 Harvard, IL 60033.

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