Noel J. Mickelson: The Untold Story of John Amos’ First Wife?

Introduction

Noel J. Mickelson is widely known as the first wife of legendary American actor John Amos. While her name is often associated with her famous ex-husband, Mickelson led a fascinating life of her own as an artist, equestrian, and activist. This article explores her life, background, marriage, struggles, and legacy, shedding light on a remarkable woman who played a significant role in breaking social barriers.

Early Life and Background

Noel J. Mickelson was born on August 22, 1943, in Jackson County, Minnesota. She was raised in a predominantly white community during a time when racial integration and civil rights movements were gaining traction in the United States. Despite societal challenges, she developed a passion for art and horseback riding, becoming an accomplished equestrian.

Mickelson pursued her education at Colorado State University, where she studied fine arts. It was during her time at the university that she met John Amos, a young athlete and aspiring actor. Their connection led to a relationship that would later make headlines due to the era’s racial prejudices.

Marriage to John Amos

Noel J. Mickelson and John Amos got married in 1965, a time when interracial marriages were still illegal in many U.S. states due to anti-miscegenation laws. Their union was not just a testament to their love but also a bold stand against racial segregation. The couple faced numerous societal challenges, but they remained committed to each other.

Interracial Marriage in the 1960s

Their marriage occurred during the height of the civil rights movement. Interracial couples often faced discrimination, ostracization, and legal challenges. However, their love story was an example of resilience and defiance against racial inequality. Just two years after their marriage, in 1967, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Loving v. Virginia, striking down laws banning interracial marriage.

Family and Children

Noel J. Mickelson and John Amos had two children:

• Shannon Amos (Born 1966): Shannon is a writer, producer, and wellness entrepreneur. She has worked in the entertainment industry and later transitioned into the holistic wellness space, traveling the world and helping people find balance in life.
• Kelly Christopher “K.C.” Amos (Born 1970): K.C. followed in his father’s footsteps and pursued a career in the entertainment industry. He is a director, producer, and actor known for his creative projects.

Both children have continued to honor their parents’ legacy, carrying on their mother’s artistic spirit and their father’s contributions to film and television.

Divorce and Life After Marriage

Despite their strong bond, Noel J. Mickelson and John Amos divorced in 1975 after ten years of marriage. While the reasons for their split were never publicly detailed, John Amos’ demanding career and the pressures of public life could have played a role. However, the two remained respectful co-parents, raising their children with love and care.

After their divorce, Mickelson largely stayed out of the public eye, focusing on her artistic career and personal life. She later remarried, tying the knot with a Disney special-effects engineer.

Tragic Health Struggles and Passing

In her later years, Noel J. Mickelson faced severe health complications. A medical mishap during a hysterectomy led to life-altering consequences—she became blind and quadriplegic. Despite these challenges, her second husband remained devoted to her, providing care and support.

Noel J. Mickelson passed away in 2016, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, artistry, and love. While she may not have gained the same public recognition as her ex-husband, her life story is an inspiring testament to strength in the face of adversity.

Noel J. Mickelson’s Legacy

Even though Noel J. Mickelson is often remembered in relation to John Amos, her contributions as an artist and advocate for interracial love remain significant. She lived a life full of passion, creativity, and courage, defying societal norms in pursuit of love and personal fulfillment.

Her children continue to honor her memory, and her story serves as an important reminder of the struggles and triumphs of interracial couples during the civil rights era.

Conclusion

Noel J. Mickelson’s life was filled with love, challenges, and perseverance. As the first wife of John Amos, she played a crucial role in breaking racial barriers in a time of segregation and prejudice. Beyond her marriage, she was an artist, an equestrian, and a strong woman who faced adversity with grace. Her legacy lives on through her children and the inspiring story of her life, which deserves recognition beyond just her association with John Amos.

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