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), and Charles Nowlin; several nieces and nephews; and good friend, Elizabeth White.

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. Pallbearers will be CJ Funk, Randy Thomas, TJ Marshall, Conner White, Chris Funk, Brayden Horne, Peyton Nowlin and Chase Marshall.

The family requests that guest dress in Tennessee Orange for the service.