OBITUARY
Virginia McKimmon Noelke, PhD, 84, passed away on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, in San Angelo.
She was born September 13, 1941 in Raleigh, North Carolina, to Henry Hull McKimmon and Ida Murchison Smith. She received her doctorate in American Civilization from The University of Texas at Austin, where she studied the history of the American West.
At school, she met her husband of over 50 years, Walter Noelke. She was a professor at Angelo State University for more than 40 years, teaching Native American Studies and History.
Virginia served as chairperson on the USPS Citizens Advisory Commission for 25 years, playing a crucial role in determining the designs of many postage stamps, including the Buffalo Soldier stamp. She also served on the board of Shannon Medical Center several years, selecting many of the art pieces on display there today.
She was a life long Bridge player, a member of the Fort Concho Duplicate Bridge Club, and a Life Master. Several of her friends shared that they were intimidated by her. Her partners loved her. Her opponents feared her. Virginia was also a published author, notably “Early San Angelo” and “The History of the Cactus Hotel.”
She is survived by her son, Hal Noelke and wife Tracey; her grandchildren, Wade, Anna & Henry; her step-grandchildren, Luke & Levi Oliver; and her sister, Willa Dickens. She was preceded in death by her husband, Walter Noelke.
Graveside service will be at 2:00 p.m., on Monday November 24, 2025 at Fairmount Cemetery with Pastor Mack Roller, officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Robert Massie Funeral Home.
The family would also like to express our sincerest appreciation to the nurses and staff at Sagecrest for caring for our “Gigi” and loving on her these past 6 months. We are truly grateful.
— From Robert Massie Funeral Home
