Noël Kimball Bradley, beloved mother, dedicated community leader and avid gardener, passed away peacefully on April 23 surrounded by her loving family. She was 93.
Noël’s remarkable life was characterized by her unwavering commitment to her passions and loved ones, specifically her love for her children and her chosen community of Darien.
Born in 1930, Noël grew up in Seattle, where her parents, Helen Stryker Kimball and Charles Dunlap Kimball, raised their only child with love and kindness. She graduated from Stanford University, Class of 1952, before moving to New York, where she met her husband and life partner, Charles E. Bradley. Together they raised five children: Elizabeth, Brad, Leslie, Kimball and Noël.
Noël and Charlie moved to Darien in 1962, where Noël embraced life on the East Coast. Her childhood in the Pacific Northwest instilled a deep appreciation for nature, which developed into a lifelong love of gardening. Her green thumb and dedication to cultivating beauty earned her a revered place in the Darien Garden Club, where she dedicated three decades of service.
Noël’s commitment to Darien extended beyond the garden as she also served as president of the Junior League, tirelessly advocating for the betterment of her community. Her determination and organization benefited all who worked alongside her.
Noël loved to travel and often embarked on hiking expeditions, both at home and abroad. Her adventurous personality once led her to leap from a mountaintop in the Alps, a testament to her willingness to try new things. Noël was equally passionate about the arts. Noël loved attending musicals, with Riverdance holding a special place in her heart, as well as the symphony and the ballet.
Noël’s thirst for knowledge was insatiable, devouring a new book every few days, much to the library’s challenge. Her love for literature was matched only by her love for politics, eagerly following and engaging in current affairs.
A devoted mother, Noël introduced all her children to the joys of swimming and proudly supported them as a swim team mom. Winter family ski trips to Vermont were annual highlights, with Noël renowned for packing delicious lodge lunches. Summers at Wee Burn were also a cherished tradition for Noël, where she enjoyed the company of friends and family.
In the summer of 2023, Noël reunited with her close circle of friends, treasuring every moment spent in their company. Her warmth, laughter, and unwavering friendship will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Noël was predeceased by her husband Charles in 2017. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her five children, 11 grandchildren and all who were touched by her humor, fun spirit and zest for life.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Darien Garden Club in Noël’s honor.
A celebration of Noël’s life will be held at 11 a.m., June 29, 2024, at St. Luke’s Church. There will be a reception to follow at Wee Burn Country Club.
Noël may have bid farewell to this world, but her memory will forever bloom in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Rest in peace, Noël.
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