Ozark, MO: William George Noble passed away peacefully on Monday, August 26, 2024, at the age of 89. Born on November 18, 1934, in St. Joseph, Missouri, he was the beloved son of Esther Lois (Jones) and Carrol R. Noble. He was raised in a nurturing home and graduated from New Hampton High School in 1952. His pursuit of knowledge took him to Northwest Missouri State University and Kansas City College of Mortuary Science.
George’s professional journey was distinguished by his many accomplishments and dedicated service to others. He served as the President of Noble-Roberson Funeral Homes and later held the role of Assistant Executive Director for the Missouri Baptist Foundation from 1976 to 1979. His dedication to public service continued with his work as the Public Relations Director for Hannibal-LaGrange College, and eventually, he became the Executive Director of the Kirksville Baptist Division, a position he held from 1981 to 1996.
Known for his unwavering Christian faith and commitment to his community, George made history as the youngest District Governor for Rotary International during his term in 1967-1968. He also played a significant role on the Harrison County Republican Committee and served as President of the Missouri Director of Missions. His impact extended into higher education, where he contributed as a trustee for Hannibal-LaGrange College and Missouri Baptist College.
George was preceded in death by his parents, Carrol R. and Esther Noble; his son, Rodney L. Noble; his in-laws, Robert W. and Lorine Stewart; and his sister-in-law, Kay Noble.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Janet Noble, who was by his side throughout his life.
George’s legacy lives on through his children, Rita (Doug) Schildknecht and Nick (Jackie) Noble; his grandchildren, Bailey (Aaron) Griffith, Madison Noble, Aaron (Stephanie) Schildknecht, Ryan Schildknecht, Derek (Sarah) Noble, and Jessica Noble; and his great-grandchildren, Jaxon and Addyson Schildknecht, Reagan and Bennett Griffith, and Milo, Leo, Gemma, Emersyn, and Jude Noble. He is also survived by his brother, Bob (Sue) Noble, and his sister-in-law, Barbara (Verlyn) Brooks.
His life was a testament to service, leadership, and a deep commitment to family and community. George will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, August 29, at Goodwin Center, Missouri Baptist Home, Ozark, MO under the direction of Roberson Funeral Home, Bethany, MO. Following the service, George will be cremated and inurnment will be at a later date in Foster Cemetery, New Hampton, MO. The family will receive friends from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. Thursday at the Goodwin Center. Memorials may be made to the Foster Cemetery in care of Roberson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 46, Bethany, MO 64424. Online condolences may be left at www.robersonfuneralhome.com.