James “Jimmy” Delbert Noel, 94, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, in his home following a brief illness.
He was born August 26, 1929 in Decatur, Illinois, later moving to and attending school in Harrodsburg, KY. Eventually the family moved to Madison, Wisconsin where he graduated high school and attended the University of Wisconsin to study Forestry.
His education was put on hold while he served in the Army 1951-1953 during the Korean War. While in the reserves until 1957, he resumed his education at the University of Michigan, receiving a Bachelor of Science in Forestry in 1956. When he happened upon a posting of job opportunities for new graduates, he selected one in Louisiana.
Eventually he located to Jena, where he met his future wife, Virginia Mackey Wilson and her five-year old son Mark. They married in 1962 and had one daughter Bonnie. In the early 60’s he became a self-employed timber appraiser, contracting with various entities, his bigger projects included I-49 and other Louisiana highways.
For most of his life, he was an avid walker, covering miles a day. He was recognized by many as he walked about town wearing his red suspenders and fishing cap. He enjoyed following world events, sports, and reading various publications. He would often comment he was pleased his children were in compatible, happy relationships with their spouses and he would often accompany them on some of their trips, to family reunions or gatherings, and the occasional side trip for fun. He is best described as being very caring, considerate and compassionate, instilling upon his children the importance of being dependable, responsible, and reliable.
At his request no services will be held, though the family asks that your walks, your ventures into nature and your appreciation of your families guide your memories and honoring of the spirit of our loved one.
He is survived and missed by his son, Mark Wilson (Cathy) of Louisiana; daughter, Bonnie Chalifoux (John) of Florida; brother, Don Noel (Sally) of Wisconsin; sister, Edith Charter Wiechel of Ohio; one grandson; two great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
