Noah Worth Ludlum Jr.

Noah Worth Ludlum, Jr. passed away at his home in Okeechobee, Florida, on October 22, 2026. Born on July 20, 1941, in Palm City, Florida, Noah was a proud descendant of Palm City’s original settlers and a man whose life was deeply rooted in family, hard work, and community.

Throughout his career, Noah owned and operated site work and dredging companies before later becoming a consultant in the dredging industry. Known for his experience and knowledge, he built a career around the work that helped shape the communities he called home.

Noah’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to his community extended well beyond his professional career. On August 8, 1978, Noah and his nephew and longtime business partner, Jim Schwarz, founded the Martin County Karting Association. Together, they petitioned Martin County, and land was donated in Hobe Sound for the construction and operation of a nonprofit go-kart racing track. The track became a destination for racers from Miami to Ocala, who traveled there regularly to compete. Nearly five decades later, the track remains active under South Florida Karting, carrying forward the legacy Noah and Jim began together and continuing a tradition enjoyed by generations of racers.

Above all, family was at the heart of Noah’s life. He shared 59 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Bonnie, until her passing. He also endured the heartbreaking loss of his cherished daughter, Kelly, who preceded him in death.

Noah leaves behind his loving sons, Tim and his wife, Anne-Marie, and Mark Smith and his wife, Tammi, his son-in-law, Randy Bowers; and his grandchildren, Jaclyn Wheaton and her husband, Devin; Lindsay Bowers-Patterson and her husband, Ryan; Venessa Santiago and her husband, Kevin; Christian Ludlum; Aaron Ludlum; and Kristina Bowers-Munckton and her husband, Tom.

His legacy continues through his six great-grandchildren, Iris Munckton, Devin Wheaton, Hudson Wheaton, Jourdan Ortiz, Jayce Ortiz, Gabriel Santiago, and James Patterson, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Outside of work, Noah embraced the things that brought him joy. An avid NASCAR and football fan, he enjoyed following the sports he loved and had a special love for animals. He also enjoyed cooking and collecting and using cooking gadgets. Most importantly, Noah treasured gathering with his beloved neighbors and family, sharing good food, good company, laughter, and time with the people who meant the most to him.

A proud son of Palm City, a dedicated businessman, an entrepreneur, a community builder, and above all, a devoted family man, Noah leaves behind a legacy that reaches far beyond his professional accomplishments. The communities he helped shape, the karting tradition

he helped establish, his love for his family and friends, and the countless memories he created will continue to live on through those whose lives he touched.

Noah will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends, neighbors, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Funeral services for Noah Worth Ludlum, Jr. will be held on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Tropical Farms Baptist Church,1555 Kanner Highway in Stuart. The funeral service will be followed by a graveside service at Fernhill Memorial Gardens, 1501 Kanner Highway in Stuart.

Following the graveside service, family and friends are invited to gather for a reception at Rockin H Ranch, 4181 SW Boatramp Avenue in Palm City to share memories, fellowship, and celebrate Noah’s life.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Noah’s memory are encouraged to make a memorial donation to HeARTs Speak, reflecting his love for animals, or to the American Lung Association.

Donate to HeARTs Speak [heartsspeak.org] · Donate to the American Lung Association [action.lung.org]