Lance Nolley 52, of Little Rock passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 6, 2009. Lance proudly served four years in the Navy after attending Central High School. Both Mr. Anthony and Mr. McDonald, art teachers at Central in the early 70's were instrumental in his ultimate success as an artist. Lance had recently begun a job at The Army Navy Museum at Fort Sam Houston located in San Antonio, Texas. Prior to going to San Antonio, he worked for the Louisiana State Museum in New Orleans for a year. While in New Orleans he donated his artistic talent to community service in the revitalization of the Big Easy. Ten years before leaving Little Rock, Lance held the position of Director of Exhibits and Facilities for the Museum of Discovery in the heart of the River Market District. Before working at the Museum, Lance enjoyed success as a freelance artist, executing ideas on a grand scale painting murals, designing and building theatrical and advertising sets. Lance also worked alongside Discount Jack at Discount Records. Discount was known statewide as the place for all your music needs, including concert tickets and chartered "party" buses to the best out of town shows. Talking to Lance on the phone or in person was sure to lend you hours of interesting conversation and hilarious anecdotes. He was a light that lived a life worth living, true vagabond style. He will be remembered for his humor, creativity and signature ponytail. He was the definition of creativity and innovation. Lance will be greatly missed by the entire Arkansas art community. One can be sure Lance will be trading the paint in his airbrush for cloud dust as his father John stands at his side, telling him that things are done different up here. All the while John knows that Lance can handle any heavenly situation that comes up.

He is survived by his daughters Marianne and Taylor Nolley; their mother Anne Nolley; his mother Mary Nolley King; four brothers Lamont, Lloyd, Lox and Justin Nolley; one sister Dawne Nolley and 13 nephews and nieces. He is preceded in death by his father John Nolley and his Step-father Jim King.

A casual celebration of Lance's life will be held from 6-9:30 on Friday March 20, 2009 at the Dempsey Film Group, 322 S. State Street,in Little Rock.