Nolan struck six minutes before half-time in front of the Gallowgate End, where he was once adored by the locals, to seal the Hammers' 1-0 victory at St James' Park.
As a mark of respect, he shelved his customary 'chicken dance' celebration, but there was no hiding his delight.
The 30-year-old, of course, might still have been a Newcastle player had owner Mike Ashley sanctioned the long-term contract for which he was looking during the summer of last year, but he will continue to look back fondly on his time on Tyneside.
He said: "I loved everything about this club when I was here, and I still do.
"I have fond memories and many friends and my family enjoyed it up here. My little boy is a Geordie.
"I thought it was a fantastic performance from us. I was delighted to get the goal and just delighted with how the day went.
"I would like to thank the Newcastle fans for the fantastic support they gave me while I was here, and for the reception they gave me on Sunday."
Commitment
Nolan added: "Obviously I could not have asked to have gone to a better club than West Ham for the following we have got and the commitment they have shown, so I'm delighted to be at another wonderful club.
"Hopefully I can do as well for them as I did up here."
The visitors had to weather a sustained assault in the second half as Newcastle, who had started poorly, attempted to fight their way back into the game.
However, manager Sam Allardyce's traditional organisation and a commendable resilience saw them through.
Nolan said: "You have got to expect that because they are a team with fantastic players. They had some fantastic players out [suspended] and we knew we had to capitalise on that, and I think we did.
"We hung on and credit to the lads because we have got a lot of grit and determination. I'm delighted to lead them every week."
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