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Ludi Mae "Shookie" Nolen, a remarkable woman known for her dynamic spirit and fastidious nature, passed away peacefully on April 27th, 2024. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering devotion. She had an acute sense of humor and flair for the dramatic. She also knew how to turn a phrase.
From her earliest days, Ludi exhibited an exceptional knack for organization and precision. She believed fervently that everything had its place, instilling in her loved ones a sense of orderliness that would inform and shape their lives. Even amidst the chaos of daily life, Ludi could be found tidying up, ensuring that harmony prevailed.
Quiet and kind-hearted, Shookie was a peacemaker within her family and circle of friends. She disliked conflict and instead sought to find common ground, earning her the admiration and respect of all who knew her. As the second eldest among eight siblings, she often played the role of protector and mediator, weaving together the bonds of family with her humor and gentle spirit.
A passionate lifelong reader that began in the early days of her youth, Ludi would love to get lost in different titles. This led her to start the exclusive “Black Knights Club”, of which she was the only member. Reading showed her the power of words and how they can influence others and shape one's life. A self-proclaimed foodie, she delighted in exploring new culinary experiences and cherished the joy of sharing meals and laughter with loved ones.
Born in Crystal Springs Mississippi to Eugene and Eula Nolen and raised in Chicago Illinois, Ludi embarked on a journey that led her to bring her family to California, where she flourished in her career as an executive secretary at Huntington Hospital and eventually City of Hope. Her meticulous attention to detail and passion for books made her perfectly suited for the role, and she remained dedicated to her work for fifteen years, leaving an indelible mark on all who crossed her path.
Despite her professional accomplishments, Ludi's greatest source of pride was her family. She cherished her role as a mother and was immensely proud of her daughter, Erin, and her grandson, Tim. Her love knew no bounds, and her presence will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Ludi would want to be remembered as a loving and caring individual, whose wisdom and thoughtfulness touched the lives of those around her. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her surviving family members: her daughter Erin, grandson Tim, sisters Gloria-Teene (Michael Levels), Katie (Lawrence Everett-deceased), Jerdine (Jeri), Ruth (Melvin Sharpe), Eugene Jr.-Shank (Joan), and Genice (Steven Suggs) as well as the memory of her departed brother Abram (Abe) and countless nieces and nephews. Ludi was baptized on 4/27/1986 at Abundant Grace Fellowship in Pasadena California.
