Jimmy Nolan Car Accident – It is with profound sadness that we report the untimely passing of Jimmy Nolan, a former University of Utah football player and a beloved high school football coach. Jimmy, who dedicated much of his life to mentoring young athletes, tragically died in a car accident on September 10, 2020, in Georgetown, South Carolina. His youngest daughter, Micki, only three years old, also perished in the accident, leaving the community in shock and mourning.
On the morning of September 10, 2020, Jimmy Nolan’s wife, Taran, was driving their three younger children—Micki, Daisy, and Jimmy Jr.—along U.S. Highway 521 near Georgetown. During their drive, Taran was on the phone with Jimmy, who was presumably on his way to work or elsewhere. At that moment, a car traveling in the wrong direction on the highway struck their vehicle head-on.
The collision caused both cars to ignite in flames. Despite emergency rescue efforts, Micki tragically lost her life at the scene. Taran and the other children sustained severe injuries, and all were rushed to nearby hospitals in critical condition. The driver of the other vehicle, identified as 49-year-old Glendora Holmes, also succumbed to her injuries in the crash. The event left the community devastated and in disbelief over the senseless loss of life.
Jimmy Nolan was not just an athlete but also an individual who dedicated his life to serving others through his role as a coach. He played football at the University of Utah from 1995 to 1999, earning recognition for his talent, leadership, and hard work on the field. His time at the university was marked by dedication and a strong work ethic, qualities that would serve him well throughout his life.
After his college career, Jimmy transitioned into coaching, where his passion for helping young athletes grew. He became known for not only his technical knowledge of the game but also for his unwavering commitment to teaching the values of teamwork, perseverance, and discipline. Over the years, he served as the head coach for several high schools, including Fountain Valley, Lakewood, Carson, Laguna Beach, Cantwell-Sacred Heart, and Compton Centennial.
At the time of his tragic death, Jimmy was the head coach at Costa Mesa High School, a role he had embraced in 2019. Those who worked with him or knew him personally spoke highly of his character, his leadership, and his genuine care for the students he mentored.
In the aftermath of the accident, the outpouring of support for the Nolan family was overwhelming. A GoFundMe campaign was quickly launched to help with medical expenses and other needs, and the campaign raised over $190,000 within a short period. This act of generosity was a testament to the love and respect the community had for Jimmy and his family.
Principal Jacob Haley of Costa Mesa High School expressed the school’s grief, calling the accident “every parent’s worst nightmare.” Haley also praised Jimmy for his dedication to his family and students, highlighting how deeply he had impacted his athletes’ lives. Jimmy’s commitment to his work and his family was widely admired by colleagues and students alike.
Jimmy Nolan’s untimely passing is an immense loss to the world of high school football and the countless individuals whose lives he touched. He will be remembered not only for his athletic achievements but also for his role as a mentor, teacher, and father. His legacy lives on through the young people he mentored and the lessons he instilled in them—lessons that extend beyond the football field.
As the community continues to mourn this tragic loss, our thoughts and condolences remain with the Nolan family. Jimmy’s memory will endure, and his impact on the lives he touched will never be forgotten.