John Edward Noakes

Dr. John Edward Noakes died peacefully February 2, 2022 at the age of 91. Despite challenges due to illness he retained his character of grace, curiosity and enthusiasm until the end.

John was born to Ona and William Noakes in Windsor, Canada. He spent his early years in Upper State New York where he enjoyed an idyllic youth full of outdoor sports, dogs and the shared family passion for car remodeling. While completing his PhD in oceanography at Texas A&M he developed a new technique for carbon dating which improved accuracy and become the standard method worldwide. This was his first of many patents. After beginning his career at University of Alaska and Oak Ridge Associated Universities he joined the University of Georgia in 1969, first as the director of the Geochronology Laboratory and then as the founding director of the Center for Applied Isotope Studies, a position he held for over 35 years. The Center enabled him to follow his diverse academic interests providing analytical and technical services for the private and public sector. He never lost passion for his work and always coached others to be visionaries as well.

While at College Station, Texas he met the love of his life, Sue Kirby. He said she was the support and advisor that allowed him to participate in his many worldwide adventures. They had two children, Wendy Readling (Bryan) and William "Bo" Noakes (Robin). He was grandfather to Caleb and Erin Readling. They will miss his guidance and encouragement for their own occupational interests.

John will have a private graveside service and a memorial will be announced at a later date.