John Jumaane Noel

John Jumaane Noel, an extraordinary father, husband, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away unexpectedly following a battle with prostate cancer on September 13, 2025, at the age of 52. His passing at 3:01 PM was a poignant echo of his lifelong passion for music and the name of his beloved band, Area-301.

John was born on December 18, 1972, in Washington, D.C., and moved with his family to Mitchellville, MD, in 1977. Deeply rooted in his hometown, he built his life there and raised his daughter with love and devotion. A naturally gifted entrepreneur and small business owner, John poured his creativity, vision, and drive into every endeavor. His greatest passion, however, was music. As the leader of Area-301, he touched countless lives with his talent, joy, and spirit.

John never met a stranger-he saw a friend in everyone. He lived by a profound belief in the underdog and had an uncanny gift for finding the good in people, places, and situations where others could not. Known for his generous heart, boundless kindness, and unwavering optimism, John inspired others through the way he lived. His vibrant, fast-paced journey was a testament to his spirit, and it is no surprise that God called him home so soon. His work here was truly well done.

John was preceded in death by his loving parents, Evelyn Sebro Noel and Dr. Patrick A. Noel Sr.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Bridgett Noel, and his cherished daughter, Alexandra Noel. He also leaves behind his siblings-Kevin, Patrick, Rosie, and Charles-along with aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and a wide community of lifelong friends who were like family and who will miss him dearly.

A wake will be held at Robert E. Evan's Funeral Home (16000 Annapolis Road, Bowie, MD 20715) on October 7, 2025, from 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM. A memorial service celebrating John's life will follow at The Atreeum at Soaring Timbers (610 N Bestgate Rd, Annapolis, MD 21401) on October 8, 2025, at 12:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Foundation for the Advancement of Music & Education (FAME). John believed deeply in the goodness and purity of music, in its power to heal, and in its ability to communicate love and acceptance across boundaries of gender, race, and language. He often said music had saved his life many times.