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Nolan Browning Jr., 75, of Indianapolis, Indiana, passed away on August 10, 2026, leaving behind a legacy woven from creativity, devotion, and a lifelong love of the outdoors. Born to Mabel (Milburn) Browning and Nolan Browning, he grew into a man who found peace under open skies and purpose in caring for the people around him.
An Eagle Scout, Nolan carried the spirit of scouting with him throughout his life — curiosity, resourcefulness, and a deep respect for nature. Camping was his sanctuary. He loved the crackle of a fire, the quiet of the woods, and the feeling of being surrounded by something bigger than himself. He was happiest with dirt on his boots, a project in his hands, and the freedom to create something from nothing.
For forty years, Nolan shared his life with his soulmate, Beverly Minardo, who passed away in April 2026. Their bond was steadfast and tender, built on laughter, loyalty, and the kind of love that doesn’t need a title to be real. Nolan embraced Beverly’s daughters, Selina Minardo and Chanel Minardo, as his own, and together they formed a family defined by connection rather than convention.
Nolan worked at the Center Township Trustee’s Office from 1984 until his retirement in 2022, serving his community with dedication and pride. As a maintenance supervisor, he was known for his creativity, his cleverness, and his ability to fix almost anything. He approached every task with patience and a steady hand, leaving behind a quiet legacy of service.
He is survived by his brothers John Browning, Sherman Browning, and Tom Browning; his children Christopher Browning, Valorie McFarland, and Kevin Browning; Beverly’s daughters Selina Minardo and Chanel Minardo; eight grandchildren; three great‑grandchildren with one great‑grandchild on the way; and many nieces and nephews. His family will forever remember his humor, his gentle wisdom, and the way he showed love through action — fixing, building, guiding, and simply being there.
Nolan is preceded in death by his parents; his brothers Donnie and Ronnie Browning; his sisters Mary Milburn, Jackie Johnson, and Jane Browning; his soulmate Beverly; his grandson Ronnie McFarland; and his son‑in‑law Shawn McFarland.
Those who loved him will carry his stories, his lessons, and his spirit into every campfire, every creative project, and every quiet moment spent in nature. His presence will be missed, but his love will continue to echo through the generations he helped shape.
Memorial Services will be at 5:00PM Saturday, August 22, at Fountian Square Cremation and Funeral Services. Visitation from 3:00PM until time of services.
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