Ricky Thomas Nowlin

Ricky Thomas Nowlin, 65, of Kingsport, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, September 18, 2026. He was born in Shelbyville, TN on March 7, 1961. Ricky was a 1979 graduate of Dobyns-Bennett High School. Known as the “Golden Arm Welder,” Ricky was a talented craftsman. He was a dedicated Vols fan and also enjoyed NASCAR racing. Ricky was a believer and attended Bible Way Church in Bloomingdale. He was a loving father, grandfather and friend and will be deeply missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred Thomas Nowlin, Jr. and Edith Elizabeth Rowlett Osteen; sister, Debbie Nowlin; best friend, Terry “Monk” Marshall; Margie Perry and Cindy Nowlin; and his beloved dog, Rock.

Survivors include his daughters, Kristy Nowlin (Randy), Wendy Nowlin (TJ) and Melissa Nowlin; grandchildren, CJ Nowlin, Zalah Gaines, Madison Littrell and Brayden Horne, Alexa Marshall, Aleah Marshall, Mason Marshall, and Chace Marshall; brothers, Larry Nowlin (Vickie), Jerry Nowlin (Michelle) and Charles Nowlin; and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Friday, September 25, 2026 from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home, Kingsport. Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Pastor Rick Vannoy officiating. Graveside services will follow at Oak Hill Memorial Park.