Obituary of Raymond James Smith Noble

It is with profound sadness that the family announce the passing of Raymond James Smith Noble at the Dr. Everett Chalmer’s Hospital, Fredericton, New Brunswick on June 22, 2024. Born on January 28, 1941 in Rusagonis, he was the son of the late Hazen and Frances (Smith) Noble.

Raymond will be missed by his loving wife of 57 years, Pam; children, Natalie and Jayson (Tanya); grandson, Mayson, to whom Raymond was a wonderful “P-Pa”; siblings, Leona Wood, Josephine Carr, David (Donna), and Roger (Ivy); sister-in-law, Bonnie; as well as many close cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

In addition to his parents, Raymond was predeceased by his sisters, Myra Kay and Mary Lipsett, and his brother, Owen.

Raymond was proud to have been born, raised, and lived his entire life on his family farm in Rusagonis. He built a business, started a family, and created Noble Hillside Farms on the banks of the Rusagonis River.

Starting out, Raymond was a printer working for the Atlantic Advocate for many years before joining Centennial Print. When he was looking for a change in the mid 1970’s, he started working in cabinetry, which eventually lead to opening his general contracting business, Noble Builders and Renovators Ltd. in 1977. The first house he built was his and Pam’s house to this day. He was so proud when his son, Jayson, took over the company when he “retired”.

Retirement meant freeing up the time to dedicate to his beloved farm, Noble Hillside Farms. As a hobby farm, he was able to spend hours in the yard, caring and tending it for many years. It also gave him the excuse for collecting tractors, especially the old ones!

In 2022, the newly incorporated Local Service District of Sunbury-York South was looking for counsellors. At age 81, Raymond decided to run and was the first elected counsellor.

A sincere thank you to all the friends and family that have been supportive and caring during this difficult time, especially to Shelia and Dave Tucker, who have gone above and beyond. As well, the family would like to express our deepest gratitude for all the amazing care that was received by the doctors, nurses and staff in the ICU, CCU and the palliative care unit at the DECH, as well the NB Heart Center at the Saint John Regional hospital.

Visitation will be held at the Rusagonis Baptist Church on Thursday, June 27, 2024 from 2:00 to 4:00 and 7:00 to 9:00 pm. A service of remembrance will take place Friday, June 28, 2024 at 2:00 pm at the Rusagonis Baptist Church, with Rev. Brent MacDonald presiding. Following the service, the family will proceed to the Rusagonis Cemetery for interment, following which they will join guests for a reception in the church hall. 

Donations in Raymond’s name to the following charities would be appreciated by the family: The Rusagonis Baptist Church, Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, NB Lung, the Oromocto River Watershed Association, or to a charity of your choice.