Noel J. Mickelson: The Untold Story of John Amos’ First Wife and Her Impact on Interracial Marriage

Noel J. Mickelson was more than just the first wife of actor John Amos. She was an artist, an equestrian, and a brave advocate for racial equality during a time when the United States was deeply divided by race. Her life story is one of courage, resilience, and quiet activism. In this article, we will explore her journey, her achievements, and the lasting impact she had on her family and society.

Quick Biography

Early Life and Background

Noel Jean Mickelson, often called “Noni,” was born on August 22, 1943, in Jackson County, Minnesota. She grew up in a small town with her parents, Wilbur B Mickelson and Dorothy J Tims. Her early life was shaped by the values of hard work and perseverance, which would later define her character.

Growing up in Minnesota, Noel developed a love for art and horses. These interests would play a significant role in her life, leading her to become both a talented artist and an accomplished equestrian. Her upbringing in a close-knit community also instilled in her a strong sense of justice and equality, which would later influence her advocacy work.

Meeting John Amos

Noel’s life took a dramatic turn when she met John Amos at Colorado State University in the early 1960s. John, who would later become a famous actor, was studying at the same university. Their connection was immediate, and they soon began a relationship that would challenge societal norms.

At the time, interracial relationships were rare and often met with hostility. The United States was still grappling with racial tensions, and many people disapproved of relationships between people of different races. Despite these challenges, Noel and John’s love for each other was strong, and they decided to get married.

Marriage and Family

Noel and John Amos tied the knot on December 27, 1965, at the university chapel in Colorado State University. Their wedding was a bold statement during a time when interracial marriage was still illegal in many parts of the country. Just two years later, in 1967, the Supreme Court ruled in Loving v. Virginia that laws banning interracial marriage were unconstitutional. Noel and John’s marriage was a small but significant step toward this historic change.

The couple had two children: Shannon Amos, born in 1966, and K.C. Amos, born in 1970. Shannon would go on to become a writer-producer, while K.C. followed in his father’s footsteps as a film director. Despite their eventual divorce in 1975, Noel and John remained connected through their children and shared values.

Noel’s Personal Achievements

Noel J. Mickelson was a woman of many talents. She was not only a devoted mother and wife but also a skilled artist and equestrian. Her artistic abilities allowed her to express herself creatively, while her love for horses led her to win numerous riding awards.

In addition to her personal accomplishments, Noel was a quiet but powerful advocate for racial equality. Her marriage to John Amos was a form of activism in itself, challenging the racial prejudices of the time. Through her actions and personal convictions, she contributed to the broader civil rights movement in the United States.

Divorce and Later Life

Noel and John Amos divorced in August 1975, but Noel’s life continued to be full of challenges and triumphs. She remarried a Disney special-effects engineer, and for a time, life seemed stable. However, tragedy struck in 1996 when Noel was involved in an incident that left her blind and quadriplegic. Despite these immense challenges, she showed remarkable resilience.

Her second husband cared for her until his death around 2005. Noel’s later years were marked by her struggle with health issues, but she remained a symbol of strength and perseverance. She passed away in 2016, leaving behind a legacy of courage and determination.

Legacy and Impact

Noel J. Mickelson’s life was a testament to the power of quiet activism. Her marriage to John Amos challenged societal norms and contributed to the acceptance of interracial relationships in the United States. Her children, Shannon and K.C., have carried on her legacy through their own careers and personal lives.

Noel’s story is also a reminder of the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. Despite the challenges she faced, she never gave up, and her strength continues to inspire those who know her story.

Recent Family Developments

In recent years, the Amos family has faced new challenges. John Amos passed away on October 1, 2024, at the age of 84. His death brought renewed attention to the family’s history, including Noel’s role as the mother of his children.

There have also been disputes within the family. In July 2023, Shannon Amos and her brother K.C. were involved in a conflict that led to K.C.’s arrest. Shannon has since hired a lawyer to investigate the care her father received in his final months. These events have brought the Amos family back into the public eye, reminding us of the complexities of family dynamics and the lasting impact of Noel J. Mickelson’s life.

Conclusion

Noel J. Mickelson’s life was one of quiet courage and resilience. As an artist, equestrian, and advocate for racial equality, she left a lasting impact on her family and society. Her marriage to John Amos challenged societal norms and contributed to the broader struggle for civil rights in the United States. Despite the challenges she faced, Noel’s legacy continues to inspire those who know her story. She was a true pioneer, and her life reminds us of the power of love, resilience, and quiet activism.