Colonel John Allen Noble, United States Army (retired), a devoted husband and father, passed away on August 15, 2024 at the age of 87 in Brookeville, Maryland. He was surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a legacy of courage, compassion, and unwavering dedication.
John was the eldest son of Louvenia Rogers Noble and John M. Noble of Rochelle, Georgia. He is preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Marjorie Noble Lloyd, and brother, Bob Noble. He is survived by his wife of over 54 years, Carole Beam Noble, with children Joshua Yan Noble of Memphis, Tennessee (grandchildren, Thomas Elijah and wife Courtney, and Elizabeth Morely), Carrie Noble Byrum and husband Derek Byrum of Laurel, Maryland (grandchildren, Tessa Yan, Noah Derek, Sarah "Sadie" Grace, and John Noble), Rachel Noble Lipari and husband Michael Lipari of Potomac, Maryland (grandchildren, Michael "Nic" Nicodemus and Acadia Faye), William Clay Noble and wife Karlynn Noble of Rockville, Maryland (grandchildren, Graham Robin and Connor Beam), and Ellen "Nelle" Chitwood Noble and husband John Nielson of New Orleans, Louisiana (grandchildren, Clark Noble and Harvey Falcone). He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, DiLane Noble and Joan Beam, 3 nieces, 4 nephews, many cousins, and dear friends.
John was born on June 27, 1937 in Rochelle, Georgia where he cemented lasting bonds with family and friends which he cherished his entire life. He finished high school at Riverside Preparatory Academy in Gainesville, Georgia in 1955, and he graduated from The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina, in Charleston, South Carolina in 1959. Both educational experiences made lasting impressions upon him. The Citadel was particularly formative, teaching him lessons about duty, honor, and character that resonated through his life. He loved reminiscing about his adventures there, particularly with his lifelong friend and college roommate, Mike Davis, and he attended many alumni events. After college, John returned to Rochelle where he was elected to City Council and then mayor. He resigned from his position in December 1965 when he reported for active duty in the United States Army and began his military career. John served two tours in Vietnam and later served in the Gulf War. In 1977, John graduated with his master's degree in political science from the University of Kansas and he completed a United States Army War College Fellowship at the University of South Carolina in 1982. Throughout his 28 years of military service, John honorably served his country with distinction and selflessness. He was widely regarded as an inspirational leader characterized by his personal integrity and devotion to his men. As a leader, John embodied the values of bravery, honor, and compassion that he held dearly. He received many military honors and awards, including a Silver Star, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal with Valor, Purple Heart, Presidential Unit Citation, and the Combat Infantryman's Badge.
After marrying Carole, the Army stationed the family all over the world, including Missouri, Washington DC, California, Kansas, Germany, South Carolina, South Korea, Washington State, Saudi Arabia, and Alabama. John loved traveling and experiencing new places, taking special delight in history and cuisine. After retiring from the Army, John embarked on another successful career with ITT, Inc. Through his work, he spent significant time in the Middle East region and had many close friends and colleagues abroad. John retired as a senior executive from ITT and enjoyed many years with Carole at the family's long-time home base in Athens, Georgia before relocating to Maryland in 2023.
John's life was defined by his unwavering commitment to his family, community, and country. He had many notable accomplishments, but none made him prouder than his marriage to Carole and their five children and twelve grandchildren. John believed in the transformative power of hard work and education, and he encouraged his children and grandchildren to always strive to achieve, learn, and serve. He found immense joy in watching his children grow and succeed and his guidance, wisdom, and gentle strength were the cornerstones of their lives.
John was steadfast in his support for each member of his family. He always made those around him feel valued and, in return, he was deeply loved and respected. John taught so many people the true meaning of devotion, honor, and unconditional love. He will be dearly missed.
Funeral services to celebrate John's remarkable life will be at a future date at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. John's first cousin Rev'd Dr. William C. "Bill" Noble will officiate the services. The date will be provided as it is received.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations to be made in John's name to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund by visiting https://www.vvmf.org.
