Marie Noon (17 Sep 1953 - 19 Nov 2023)

In loving memory of Marie Noon who sadly passed away on 19th November 2023.

Marie was born in 1953 to Raymond and Joan Noon, and was a much-loved big sister to Paul, also deceased.

Following a turbulent childhood she was raised by her grandmother Marion after the loss of both her parents. Marie attended the Joseph Wright Art School and it was a point of pride to her that she is one of the only students to ever graduate (with an academic medal no less) without a qualification in art after protesting the sexist attitudes of one of the teachers!

A memorable year in Canada as an au pair was followed by time at teacher training college, before she moved to Daventry with her then-husband and Elinor. Later, as a single mother, she earned a high reputation with the temp agencies in the town and balanced work and childcare while also achieving her degree in behavioural science. Her skills, easy going nature, and surprisingly filthy sense of humour saw her often requested as a safe pair of hands that it was a joy to work with. Although it did cause confusion when, while working at the local sixth form college, Elinor and four friends arrived in her office chorusing 'Mommi!'

Her caring nature made her last role before retirement, at Rainsbrook Secure Training Facility, all the more special, able as she was to see the humanity behind the crimes that the children had committed and ensuring their dignity by liaising with family members and providing admin support to those involved in their care. Having come from a difficult background herself, she knew the strength and determination it took to try to stop it from swallowing your future.

Latterly, her involvement in craft groups, the volunteer centre activities in Daventry, and help in setting up the town's U3A gave her outlets for her creativity and sunshine.

Threaded through the past 40 years, her Quaker faith sustained her. She was so proud to have served her community as clerk and as part of the nominations committee, as well as being difficult when she felt called to be!

Although health problems and the pandemic have led to a quieter life in recent years - her energy, spirit, and drive never dimmed.

As a mother, she was devoted and a true inspiration. Her loss is beyond words.

***

Marie's farewell will be held at 1:30pm on Monday 11th December, at Rainsbrook Crematorium, Ashlawn Road, Rugby, CV22 5QQ

In her funeral wishes, Marie asked that people not wear all-black. You are welcome to wear whatever colour you like, she was such a creative and artistic person that she would love a kaleidoscope, but if that throws the options too wide - her favourite colour was purple :)

No flowers - Marie felt very strongly about funeral flowers and didn’t want floral tributes. If you are moved to send something, then please make a donation to the charities she chose via her obituary page. Her Facebook page will also be turned into a memorial so that memories and photos can be shared there, or you can contact Elinor privately to share any photos or memories via elinor.g.smallman@gmail.com

We will be sharing readings and music Marie chose during the service, as well as making time for a period of Quaker Meeting for Worship where those present can offer reflections and memories as they feel moved. If you are not a Quaker, please don’t worry - everyone is welcome and guidance will be given on the day so you know what to expect.

Tea and biscuits will be available at the Quaker Meeting House in Rugby (CV21 2PN) after the service has finished. Everyone is welcome to chat, share memories, or just have a hug and a cuppa.

If you would like to come but may find travel a challenge, please get in touch with Elinor. For those driving - if you might have a spare seat in your car, please also let her know. It may be possible to arrange a minibus to help with any particularly tricky transport issues, but if it’s possible to match up folks who could offer a lift, that would be a great help.

If you aren’t able to attend

For those who aren't able to attend a webcast of the service will be available. This will be live streamed, but a recording will also be available after 48 hours. For details of the live or record online service, please contact elinor.g.smallman@gmail.com

A note about Covid and illness generally

As there are likely to clinically vulnerable people attending the service, Elinor asks that anyone who is feeling ill or who has tested positive on a lateral flow test please not attend. Having been so careful about Covid, Marie would not want her funeral to be the cause of anyone falling ill.