Stewart Noel

Micah 6:8 What does the Lord require of you? To act justly, and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

Stewart Noel was born in Bedford, Indiana on October 21, 1958. He passed away unexpectedly on May 16, 2023 while recovering from surgery. He was preceded in death by his parents, Delmar and Margaret Noel; as well as his brother Gary. Stewart is survived by his loving wife of nearly 42 years, Linda Noel; four sons Steven Noel (Emily) of Stafford, David Noel (Kelsey) of Cheverly, Maryland, Michael Noel of Washington, D.C., and Daniel Noel of Stafford; and grandchildren Charlotte and Eloise.

Stewart proudly served his country throughout his life. He enlisted in the Army directly out of high school and was stationed in Germany as a helicopter crew chief. Following his service in the Army he attended Marion College on the G.I. Bill, graduating Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree, and meeting his wife, Linda. He later attended Indiana University School of Law before re-entering military service as an Air Force Judge Advocate General (JAG), later attending The George Washington University School of Law, earning a Master of Law Degree in Government Procurement. His Air Force career started and ended in Virginia, with stations in California, Ohio, Hawaii, Nevada, and Colorado in between. Stewart retired from his service with the Air Force in 2006 after 21 years. Following his military career, he served as a civilian for the Air Force General Counsel’s Office, DARPA, and the Office of the Secretary of Defense General Counsel’s Office.

Stewart, a faithful husband and loving father, supported his son’s interests and always encouraged them to discover their true selves and follow their passions in all that they do. He was actively engaged as a Boy Scout as a youth, and guided his sons in Scouting themselves, as he served generously for many years as their troop leader.

Stewart was a lifelong Christian, having come to faith at the age of 4. Those close to him knew him as both a man of faith and unwavering conviction. Stewart exuded his values of kindness, authenticity, compassion, and leadership day in and day out, every day of his life. He attended many church communities as he traveled around the country with the Air Force. Most recently, he and Linda found their church home at Ebenezer United Methodist Church, where he has been a dedicated member and cherished friend.

Stewart was a man who enjoyed his life fully and had few vices: Diet Coke (eventually kicked) and peanut M&Ms. In his spare time Stewart enjoyed walking and throwing the ball to his dogs, eating Linda’s cooking, and watching sports. He was looking forward to retirement to spend more time traveling with his wife Linda and to have more free time for woodworking and painting.

A service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 27, 2023 at Ebenezer United Methodist Church in Stafford, VA. The family will receive friends following the service with light refreshments. Interment will be held at a later date in Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors.

Stewart is home now, and rather than mourn without solace, he would want to gently direct us to find peace where he did, and does now, with Jesus.