Obituaries

Landon Ashley Nowlin, 49, of Stuart, Virginia, passed away at his home on March 17, 2026. A devoted husband, son, stepfather, step-grandfather, uncle, and friend, Landon was born on March 5, 1977, in Henry County to his loving parents, Jimmy and Becky Nowlin of Stuart.

A proud member of the 1998 graduating class from Virginia Tech, where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in finance. A very important job Landon pursued was a government contractor position in Afghanistan, Ground Based Operational Surveillance System (GBOSS)Technical Trainer/Maintainer in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.

Landon developed documentation for planning/executing the fielding and conducting of New Equipment Training (NET) in support of C4ISR systems and equipment. He provided Ground Based Operational Surveillance System (GBOSS), GBOSS Lite, and Cerberus Lite support, including site surveys, system setup and configuration, installation, and training support to forward-deployed USMC combat units in Afghanistan. Landon was responsible for training Marines on the operation and capabilities of surveillance, electronic countermeasures, and early detection systems. He provided guidance and expertise in the operation of these surveillance systems and how best to deploy them to enhance combat readiness. These systems and the training he provided were directly responsible for the safety and security of hundreds of Marines deployed throughout the most dangerous region within Afghanistan.

Landon later discovered his true calling as a Physical Therapist Assistant. After earning his degree from Wytheville Community College, he became highly respected for his clinical expertise and exceptional interpersonal skills. He took immense pride in his work and shared a deep, mutual bond of affection with his patients.

Landon brought joy to everyone around him through his music, often sharing his talents as a gifted guitar player and singer. He loved to serenade his wife with her favorite songs. An avid trail runner, he was a well-known and respected figure in the running community. This past October, he achieved a monumental personal goal by completing his first 100-mile trail race, finishing even faster than he had anticipated—a truly remarkable accomplishment.

Landon is survived by his loving wife of 15 years, Valarie Nowlin; stepson, Bailey Holt; stepdaughter, Brooke Hylton (William); and two step-grandsons, Oliver and Luka Holt. He is also survived by his beloved parents, Jimmy and Becky Nowlin, and his mother-in-law, Brenda Hughes; brothers-in-law, Timmy Hughes, John Hughes (Beth), many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and wonderful friends; and his precious companion, Miss Mali—the cat he always swore wasn’t his, though everyone knew better.

Landon was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents and his paternal grandparents. He was also preceded in death by his father-in-law, Steve Hughes.

Landon shared an exceptionally close bond with his aunt and uncle, Bill and Nell Holt, who preceded him in death as well. More than just family, they were like second parents to Landon, and he held them in the highest regard throughout his life. Their unwavering support and affection earned them a permanent, special place in Landon’s heart.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Moody Funeral Services in Stuart with Rev. Tammy Franklin officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service on Saturday afternoon at the funeral home.