Calhoun County, AL – In a heartfelt effort to provide solace and support for parents and loved ones who have tragically lost family members to murder, a new organization has been established in Calhoun County. Known as Parents of Murdered Children (POMC), this local chapter, the first of its kind in Alabama, is part of the larger parent chapter located in Cincinnati, Ohio. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, POMC aims to be a beacon of hope for those who have endured the unthinkable.
Debora Nobles, the founder of the East Alabama local chapter, knows the devastating pain of losing a loved one to murder all too well. She and her husband, Bernard, lost their son, Christian M. Nobles, on November 8th, 2021. Christian, a 30-year-old resident of Anniston, met a tragic end, and the person accused of taking his life is still awaiting trial in Calhoun County.
Mrs. Nobles, in speaking about her own experience, expressed the immense difficulty she and her husband faced in coming to terms with their loss. She emphasized that without the support of the POMC group, she might not have been able to find the strength to share her story. The pain of missing Christian is immeasurable, and it’s the little things, like his presence, that are the most challenging to cope with. Mrs. Nobles highlighted the small, everyday interactions they cherished, such as him walking through the door to ask a question, share a story, or borrow something.
The loss of a child is an overwhelming and life-altering experience in itself. However, the loss of a child through violence, through murder, is a unique and excruciating form of grief that few can fully comprehend, even the closest of friends. Mrs. Nobles eloquently described how life seems to come to a halt for a period, as the shock and pain engulf every aspect of daily existence.
Despite her profound loss, Mrs. Nobles is determined to ensure that her son’s memory lives on and that his tragic death serves a greater purpose. She believes that POMC can offer vital support and hope to others who are navigating the challenging path of grief.
The East Alabama POMC chapter is a safe space where those who have experienced the same kind of loss can come together, share their stories, and find solace in the presence of others who understand their pain. The organization’s mission, both at the national and local levels, is to make a difference through ongoing emotional support, education, prevention, advocacy, and awareness, with the ultimate goal of creating a world free of murder.
The first meeting of the East Alabama POMC chapter will take place on November 14th, 2023, from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm at the American Red Cross. All who are interested are welcome to attend, share their experiences, and find comfort in the presence of those who have walked a similar path. Additionally, those curious about the organization are encouraged to reach out via email at eastalabamapomc@gmail.com to ask questions and learn more about the support and resources available.
POMC’s story begins with the tragic loss of Robert and Charlotte Hullinger’s 19-year-old daughter, Lisa, in 1978. Their daughter was murdered by a former boyfriend, Bill Coday, and this devastating event led to the founding of Parents Of Murdered Children, Inc. in Cincinnati, Ohio. Through the strength of survivors like Debora Nobles and countless others, POMC continues to offer a lifeline to those who have suffered the unimaginable, ensuring that the memories of their loved ones endure while striving for a world free of such senseless violence.
