Ralph Michael “Mike” Nowell, 71, of Front Royal, Virginia passed away on Thursday, June 25, 2026 at his home.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, July 2, 2026 at 11 AM at Maddox Funeral Home, 105 West Main Street, Front Royal with Sammy Campbell officiating.
Mr. Nowell was born on December 23, 1954 in Charlottesville, Virginia to the late Winton and Peggy Thomas Nowell. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Tommy Nowell. He was a veteran of the United States Army. He loved music and played in different bands, including “The Unexplained”.
Survivors include his wife of 26 years, Julie A. Nowell; two brothers, Rick Nowell and Steve Nowell; special niece, Cari Hermes; two nephews, T.C. Nowell and Little Steve Nowell; niece, Ashley Nowell; great nieces and nephews, Braydon, Kierstin, Cameron, Brantley, Haleigh and Bella.
A kind man and a fighter! He will be missed.
My deepest condolences to his family. Loved to hear Mike play his music.
Julie, so very sorry to hear of Mike’s passing. You and family are in my thoughts and prayers. There will be a new “old jam” in heaven now. Praying for you 🙏
with love
Nancy ” Ms. Bobby” House
thank you Mike for all the good times and memories. But most of all for the best birthday gift I ever received, my beautiful cocker spaniel Honey. You were the best god father to her ❤️
Dear Julie, so sorry to hear of Mike’s passing. May he rest in peace.
I remember Mike in The Unexplained. Those of us that were in his circle called him, “The Cobb.” Funny thing is I called him that 40 years and I still don’t know how what it meant nor how he got it. I once asked him why he played his guitar so load? He replied, “It’s the lead guitar!!! It needs to be loud!” If I prayed, it would for those that loved him and like me will miss him.
Thanks Chuck for the beautiful words. And you know, I don’t know why they called him Cobb either.
Julie,
I am so very sorry to hear this. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. Big hug to you!!
I feel very sad with Mike’s passing. My best wishes go out to his family. I grew up partially in the Nowell home with Steve being one of my very best friends. I spent the night there several time a month and Mike was almost like my big brother too. I always looked up to Mike and it was great when he sat down with Steve and I and showed us some guitar licks. Mike sure was good with that guitar, (thanks Bussey Corbin).
We’re going to miss you cousin. I’ll always value the many phone conversations we had over the years and the occasions spent together with family. I remember when I drove up to Front Royal way back in October of 1999 and we went to the Redskins – Bears game. We had a great time. Aunt Peggy cooked a big meal and I got to spend some time with everyone. From now on every fall when our Redskins take the field or when I hear a Beatles tune I’ll think about you. Your “Carolina” family loves you and we’re praying for the Lord to bring comfort and peace to Julie during the difficult days ahead.