Nolan Eugene Davidson’s life left an unforgettable mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Born May 16, 2014, Nolan was a bright, energetic and outgoing nine-year old boy whose easy laugh and kindness brought joy to his family, friends, classmates, teammates, coaches, and church community. 

On December 1, 2023, Nolan’s life—and the lives of his family and the entire community—changed forever. What began as an ordinary evening traveling between basketball games turned into an unimaginable tragedy for the Davidson family. The vehicle Nolan was riding in with his father was struck head-on by a pickup truck driven by an impaired driver in Shawnee, Kansas. Nolan suffered a devastating brain injury and was rushed to Children’s Mercy Hospital, where he courageously fought for his life. Despite the tireless efforts of the medical team, Nolan passed away on December 7, 2023, at just nine years old, leaving behind a family and community forever changed by his loss.

Nolan’s story is not defined by the tragic circumstances of his death. It is defined by the nine years he lived, the people he loved, the friendships he formed, and the joy he brought into the world. His life reminds us that the impact a person makes is not measured by the number of years they are given, but by the love they share and the lives they touch.

Nolan had a special gift for making people feel welcome. His elementary school principal, Michael Orr, said Nolan was everyone’s friend and even nicknamed him “the Mayor” of his 3rd grade class; a nickname that perfectly captured his personality. Nolan was popular not because he sought attention, but because of the way he connected and cared for others. He understood humility, friendship, and how to be a leader amongst his peers. He had a way of making people feel like they were his friend, and he built friendships that reached far beyond the walls of his classroom.

Nolan loved reading, learning, art, collecting basketball & soccer cards, playing golf, fishing, and running. Sports were one of Nolan’s greatest passions. He played basketball for the DeSoto Thunder and soccer for KC Fusion Soccer Club, where he served as team captain, and he was a leader for The Herd youth running club. 

His love of sports extended beyond competition and winning. Nolan loved being part of a team, celebrating his teammates’ accomplishments, and encouraging others. He was often the first to run across the field or court to give a teammate a high five after a great play or the first person in the handshake line after a game or match. His soccer coach, Mo Loridon, recognized that Nolan’s leadership, character, and commitment to his teammates were just as special as his athletic ability. In honor of his legacy, KC Fusion retired Nolan’s jersey number 10 for its 2014-level teams. 

The color blue has become a meaningful color in paying tribute to Nolan. Some of Nolan’s favorite teams were the KU Jayhawks and Golden State Warriors, and his soccer team wore blue so it naturally became a symbol of remembrance for Nolan. Students, teammates, and friends often wear blue and the #10 in remembrance of Nolan. 

Parents, Aaron and Ashlee have encouraged others to honor Nolan by living according to the values he embodied: being a great teammate, a great friend, a great family member, and a compassionate person. They have shared a simple message that captures the spirit they hope will continue to inspire others:

“Be good, be nice, work hard, and be humble.”

Those were the words Nolan heard from his father every day before school. 

Nolan’s legacy lives on every time some encourages a teammate, includes a classmate who feels left out. It lives on in the athlete who works hard while lifting up those around them, and the person who chooses to lead with humility and compassion. It lives on in every person who is inspired to live a little more like Nolan.

The Lord has shown you what is good. He has told you what he requires of you. You must act with justice. You must love to show mercy. and you must be humble as you live in the sight of your God. Micah 6:8