Elizabeth "Beth" Nolan

Elizabeth "Beth" Wahlig Nolan, born January 18, 1962, in Medina, Ohio, passed away on March 8, 2026, at the age of 64, surrounded by loved ones.

The oldest of four children born to Constance (Shank) Wahlig and the late Charles Theodore Wahlig, Beth moved with her family to Dover, Delaware, in 1970. From an early age, she and her siblings Anne, Cort, and Charlie Michael devoted themselves to roller skating under the guidance of their father, who was later inducted into the Delaware Sports Hall of Fame. Beth began skating at nine and excelled in figures, dance, freestyle, and speed. In 1978 she won a silver medal in sophomore women’s figures, and in 1980 she and her partner Harvey White captured gold in senior American dance. She also earned gold in the SRSTA achievement program. After retiring from competition, Beth became a respected coach who guided two national champions.

For 28 years, Beth owned and operated the Christiana Skating Center with her brother Cort, and together they ran the Dover Skating Center for 11 years. A dedicated member of the Roller Skating Association for 38 years, she served on multiple committees and as treasurer of Section 11 for more than a decade. Her steadfast efforts keeping the family businesses thriving while Cort served as vice president and then president of the RSA earned her a Presidential Award.

On April 5, 1992, Beth married the love of her life, James Patrick “Jay” Nolan. Their son, Tyler William Nolan, was born in 1994. Diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at birth, Tyler faced a challenging prognosis, yet through Beth’s tireless care and determination he celebrated his 31st birthday in excellent health. She devoted herself completely to her family, her skating centers, and ensuring her son’s well-being.

Beth was a kind, compassionate woman whose warm smile and generous spirit touched countless lives. She is survived by her mother, Constance Wahlig; siblings Cort and Anne; husband James; and son Tyler. She was preceded in death by her father, Charles Wahlig, and her brother Charlie Michael Wahlig.