Nolan "Coach" Gill Jr.

Nolan Gill, Jr. was born on December 26, 1951 and gained his angel wings on August 11, 2026 after a lengthy illness with Alzheimer’s. Nolan known to most as simply “Coach” was deeply loved by his players. As deeply as he loved his teams, his greatest joy was his family. The same dedication, patience and fierce loyalty he brought to the sidelines, he brought home. He showed his family every day what integrity and servant leadership looked like in action.

Nolan graduated from Glen Oaks High School in 1970 lettering in all four sports and earning all-district punter. He received a football athletic scholarship to Southeastern Louisiana University graduating in 1975. He lettered four years earning the Leadership Award voted on by the coaches and the Captain’s Award voted on by his fellow teammates. He was also selected unanimously All Gulf South Conference in 1974 and Honorable Mention Little All-American. After graduating from SLU, Nolan spent 33 years coaching, teaching and mentoring high school students. His career began in 1976 at GOHS as assistant coach. Later he spent coaching stints at Tara, Northeast and Denham Springs High School serving the latter as Athletic Director and Head Football Coach. However, 25 plus years were at GOHS. During his tenure there he, his team and coaches would earn seven district titles; play in two state semi-finals. Nolan was named five times Coach of the Year. He also served as Head Coach of the Great Eight All Stars in 2008. In 2023, the new GOHS Fieldhouse was named the “Coach Nolan Gill Fieldhouse” in his honor. After retirement, Nolan enjoyed playing golf with his buddies, sons and grandson. He also loved to spend time at his farm in Magnolia, MS with all his grandchildren.

Nolan is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 53 years, Kathi McCullough Gill; two amazing sons, Brandon and Byron (Jessica) Gill; four perfect grandchildren, Sidney, Lucas, Annlee and Madeline Gill; brother, Ronnie (Kathy) Gill; brother-in-law, Murray (Ellen) McCullough; sister-in-law, Garylyn Gill; numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Nolan was preceded in death by his father, Nolan Gill, Sr and mother, Myrtle Ann Doming Gill; brother, Robert Gill; nephew, Robby Gill; In-laws, Sidney and Bobbie Bueto McCullough.

Friends, family and former players are invited to attend services at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 865 Hatchel Lane, Denham Springs Tuesday, August 18 with visitation from 9:30 am to 12 noon. Mass will follow at 12 noon, being officiated by Father Al Davidson. Private interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Services of the Capital Area, 3772 North Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70806. The family extends their sincere gratitude to Pinnacle Home Health and Hospice, Brooke, Chantel, and Shana and his incredible care provider, Alice Winnfield.