Searle

Noel B. Searle, MD passed away peacefully in his sleep at his residence in LaFayette, La. on Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018. He was 89 years old.

Noel was preceded in death by his bride of almost 60 years, Beverly Jane Dykes Searle.

He is survived by his children, son Noel E. “Wynn” Searle, and daughters Annette Vidrine and Suzanne “Susi” Czarnek. Noel and Beverly were blessed with five grandchildren, Trisha Cocanougher, Edwin B. “Buck” Kott, Courtney V. Clark, Katherine L. “Katie” Vidrine, and Kenneth W. Vidrine and three great-grandchildren Ashleigh B. Morse, Kendall G. Cocanougher and Amelia E. “Mia” Clark.

Noel was born in Houston to Edwin Anselm Searle and Cora Searle on Aug. 11, 1929, the youngest of four boys. Older brothers Ben, Edwin “Buddy”, and Rex Searle also preceded Noel in death. He attended Stephen F. Austin High school in Houston, did his undergraduate studies at Baylor University and completed his studies at Baylor Medical School. He served his country with distinction in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. Stationed in Japan, he provided medical oversight and support for the M.A.S.H units caring for wounded soldiers.

Once home, he did his residency at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Houston where he married the love of his life Beverly Jane Dykes on May 10, 1958.

The couple later moved to the Rio Grande Valley where they raised their family. Dr. Searle was proud to provide medical care to his community of Harlingen, TX and the greater Valley area. It was truly a ministry to him. He began in Internal Medicine, but eventually specialized in Gastroenterology and practiced medicine in the Valley for 40 years. Many mornings he could be seen in the lobby of his office serving coffee to the family of his patients.

After his family, his patients and staff, what Noel loved best was golf. He could be seen at least two days a week on the golf course. He and Beverly were very active at Harlingen Country Club and the annual tournament Life Begins at Forty. Many great times, great parties and costumes were found at Life Begins at Forty. He also assisted Beverly with many Junior Service League Projects. After Noel retired from his medical practice, he and Beverly moved to the Texas Hill Country. They built a home on top of a hill with a fantastic view. When they weren’t at home, they loved traveling in their RV; usually visiting family across the South. Noel loved life and loved helping people.

The family asks that in memory of Noel, you volunteer to help others. Noel and Beverly supported the efforts of St. Jude Hospital, so if you prefer, please consider a donation to St. Jude to support the amazing work they do.

Service will be held at Koenig Funeral Home on Thursday, Nov. 29, 2018. Visitation from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., service at 2 p.m. with interment at the La Grange City Cemetery to follow. Noel and Beverly attended St. Alban’s Episcopal Church in Harlingen and St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Kerrville.

Pall Bearers are Rex Searle, Andy Searle, Steve Nowlin, Whit Matteson, Rick Matteson, Tim Dykes, Ted Munsell, Barry Adelman, and Kenneth Vidrine. Graveside Trumpeter, Richard Brotzman.

Family and friends can view and sign the guestbook online at www.lagrangefunerals.com.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Koenig-Belvill Funeral Home & Cremations in La Grange.