Noel J. Mickelson: The Unconventional Life of an Artist, Equestrian, and Trailblazer

Noel J. Mickelson, known for her artistic talents and love for horseback riding, was born in the small town of Estherville, Iowa. Growing up in this tranquil Midwestern setting, she embraced the simplicity of life. However, much about her early life remains a mystery, including her birth date and details about her family. What we do know is that she later pursued higher education at Colorado State University, where she would meet a man who would change her life forever—John Amos.

Meeting John Amos: A Love Story Amidst Racial Tensions

Noel and John Amos crossed paths during their college years at Colorado State University. While John was not yet an actor, he was deeply involved in football, playing for the Colorado State Rams. Their connection quickly grew into a romantic relationship, which their daughter Shannon later described as “love at first sight.” Despite societal disapproval due to their interracial relationship—John being a Black man and Noel a White woman—their bond remained strong.

A Marriage Against All Odds

In the 1960s, interracial marriages were still illegal in many parts of the United States. Despite the significant societal and legal challenges, Noel and John were determined to be together. They married in 1965, at a time when racial tensions were high, and their union was only recognized as legal in certain states. Their marriage was not only a testament to their love but also a defiance of the societal norms of the time. An incident during a cross-country trip, where they were harassed by a man with a shotgun in Arizona, highlighted the harsh realities they faced as an interracial couple.

John Amos’s Rise to Fame

When Noel and John married, John had not yet entered the world of acting. He was more focused on his athletic career, playing for football teams like the Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs. It wasn’t until the 1970s that John transitioned to acting, eventually becoming a household name for his role as James Evans Sr. in the popular sitcom “Good Times.” Throughout John’s rise to fame, Noel remained a constant source of support, standing by him through thick and thin.

Family Life and Children

Noel and John had two children, Shannon and Kelly Christopher Amos, known as K.C. Amos. Shannon, born in 1996, has fond memories of her upbringing, filled with love and care from her parents. She has since dedicated her life to wellness, founding several successful ventures. K.C., inspired by his father’s career in entertainment, pursued his own path in the industry, working as an actor, writer, producer, and editor. Despite their parents’ eventual separation, Shannon and K.C. have maintained a close relationship with their father, embodying the values and morals instilled in them by their parents.

A Passion for Art and Equestrianism

Noel J. Mickelson was much more than just the wife of a famous actor. She was an accomplished artist and a world-class equestrian. Her son, K.C., once described her as the “best endurance rider this side of the Mississippi.” Noel’s passion for horseback riding was well-known, and she was highly respected in the equestrian community. Additionally, she was an architect, environmentalist, and a staunch feminist who encouraged her daughter to break free from traditional gender roles.

Net Worth

By 2024, Noel J. Mickelson’s estimated net worth was around $8 million. Her wealth primarily stemmed from her successful career as an artist, craftswoman, and equestrian. Although she likely received a divorce settlement from John Amos, the exact amount remains undisclosed. Noel’s financial success was a testament to her diverse talents and determination to excel in her chosen fields. Meanwhile, John Amos has a net worth of approximately $3 million.

Divorce and Life After Separation

Noel and John’s marriage lasted nearly a decade, but they eventually divorced in 1975. The reasons behind their separation remain private, and neither party has publicly discussed the matter. Following the divorce, Noel chose to live a low-profile life, while John went on to marry actress Lillian Lehman, though that marriage was short-lived. Despite the end of their marriage, Noel’s influence on John’s life and career remained significant.

Legacy and Passing

Noel J. Mickelson passed away in December 2016, surrounded by her loved ones. While her exact age at the time of her death remains unknown, her legacy lives on through her children and her many accomplishments. Before her passing, Noel expressed a deep regret about not having traveled the world, a wish that her daughter Shannon honored by taking her ashes on a global journey.

Conclusion

Noel J. Mickelson’s life was a testament to love, resilience, and the pursuit of one’s passions. From her early years in Iowa to her marriage to John Amos, she lived a life that defied societal expectations and left a lasting impact on those who knew her. Her story is a powerful reminder that love knows no boundaries, and that passion and determination can transcend even the most challenging circumstances.