Noel J. Mickelson was an American artist, craftswoman, and equestrian, best known for her marriage to the acclaimed actor John Amos. While her personal life intertwined with the public eye due to her relationship with Amos, Noel largely remained outside of the celebrity spotlight, living a life that focused on her art, her family, and her passions.
Early Life and Background
Noel J. Mickelson was born in Iowa, United States, and grew up in a family that encouraged her creativity. She later pursued her passion for art at Colorado State University, where she met John Amos, who was also studying there. Their connection was immediate, and their shared experiences during their college years laid the foundation for what would become a significant chapter in both their lives.
Her talents as an artist were evident early on, and she eventually became known for her work in the equine community, focusing on craft and artistic projects related to horses and outdoor living. Mickelson’s quiet yet impactful career reflected her deep connection to nature and animals.
Noel J. Mickelson Marriage to John Amos
In 1965, Noel married John Amos, an actor who would later become famous for his roles in television shows like Good Times and Roots. Their marriage took place during a time when interracial marriages were still a subject of intense public debate and legal challenges in many parts of the United States.
Noel and John’s marriage was one of the first high-profile interracial unions in Hollywood, and while it was often met with resistance from society, they stayed strong through it all. They were married for 10 years, and during that time, John’s career took off, with Noel supporting him as he became a prominent figure in television.
Noel J. Mickelson Children and Family Life
Noel and John had two children during their marriage: Shannon Amos, who would later become a producer and writer, and K.C. Amos, who pursued a career behind the scenes in the entertainment industry. Despite the pressures of being in the public eye, Noel and John worked hard to ensure that their children were raised with love and attention, away from the spotlight as much as possible.
After their divorce in 1975, Noel continued to raise their children, ensuring that they had the foundation they needed to succeed in their own careers. Both Shannon and K.C. have shared stories of their mother’s strength, creativity, and dedication to their upbringing.
Noel J. Mickelson Life After Divorce
Following her divorce from John Amos, Noel remarried, and her life took a different turn. She settled into a more private existence, living on a ranch in California, where she continued her work as an artist and developed her equestrian skills. She became known for her love of horses and the outdoors, which were a central part of her life for many years.
Noel’s second marriage was to a Disney special-effects engineer, and the couple spent many happy years together. However, tragedy struck when Noel’s health began to decline due to complications from a medical procedure. After undergoing a hysterectomy, Noel faced severe health challenges that left her blind and quadriplegic. Despite these challenges, she continued to live with the support of her second husband until his passing.
Noel J. Mickelson Her Legacy and Passing
Noel J. Mickelson passed away in 2016 after years of battling her health conditions. While she lived much of her life out of the public eye, her legacy is carried on through her children, who have shared their admiration for their mother’s resilience and creativity. Shannon and K.C. Amos continue to honor her memory in their professional and personal lives.
Though Noel’s life was marked by personal hardship, she is remembered for her unwavering support of her family, her artistic talents, and her deep love for animals. Her legacy, though quiet, remains significant, particularly through the work of her children, who have shared their experiences and kept her spirit alive through their work.
Conclusion
Noel J. Mickelson’s life is a testament to resilience, creativity, and love. She may have never sought the public’s attention, but her impact on those who knew her is undeniable. From her marriage to John Amos to her dedication as a mother and her love of art, Noel’s life offers a narrative of personal strength that continues to inspire.
Her story reminds us that true influence often comes from living authentically and supporting those we love, away from the spotlight but still making a profound difference.
