Carlton Noyes. (Courtesy photo)
Carlton L. Noyes, 84, died March 6, 2026, at the Bedford Veteran’s Hospital. Carlton was born in Norwood, a son of Irene and Philip Noyes, and grew up in Holliston. He earned a bachelor’s degree in biology at the University of Bridgeport, where he met his wife, Sue.
He volunteered for the U.S. Army in 1966 with the 307th Medical Battalion, later with the 82nd Airborne. In 1967, he went to Vietnam to serve as a medic with the 173rd Airborne. Carlton participated in several critical battles during his service, including Dak To, Tuy Hoa, Hill 823, Hill 875, the Tet Offensive, and Cemetery Hill. Carlton received several distinguished awards, including the Bronze Star (First Oak Leaf Cluster), a Purple Heart, and an Army Commendation Medal. During his deployment in Vietnam, his unit—the 4/503rd Infantry—was honored with the Valorous Unit Award for extraordinary heroism.
From early November 1967 through Thanksgiving, the 503rd Infantry endured unimaginable hardships and suffered tremendous losses. Carlton, along with his fellow paratroopers and soldiers, exemplified true American heroism. Carlton struggled with survivors’ guilt and PTSD, which deeply impacted him. He achieved sobriety in his 50s and later sought support for his PTSD. He successfully campaigned for installing flags for all military branches at the Bedford Veterans Affairs Medical Center.
He would always encourage his fellow veterans to seek help, sobriety, faith in God, and to be deeply devoted to their families. He also always said when things are tough get down on your knees and pray to God.
Carlton was an environmental consultant for over 35 years, serving as an aquatic biologist, laboratory director, and vice president. He contributed to major projects like Boston’s Central Artery Project (Big Dig), and environmental initiatives throughout the U.S. and the world.
Carlton and Sue later settled in Harvard, where he built a house for his growing family complete with a farm that had chickens, pigs, pet bunnies, horses, ponies, and large vegetable and flower gardens. Carl and Sue later divorced, but he always considered Harvard home.
He lived in Greenville, New Hampshire, with his eldest daughter’s family before returning to Massachusetts. He moved to Nashoba Park, to be close to his younger daughter’s family. Kerra and Jim often visited with their children, sharing meals and outings. Visits from his grandchildren brought him laughter and happiness.
Carlton is survived by his daughters, Kerra Huchowski, her husband James, and their children Ava and Abner; and Heather Noyes-Young and her children Daniel, Amanda, and Timothy; his sisters, Frances Spencer and Elaine DiGiovanni, along with her husband Joseph; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. He was predeceased by his sister Elaine Francis Noyes, who died at birth, brother Peter Noyes, and sister Marguerite Durham and her husband Dale.
His family supported him through every challenge, ensuring he was cared for with dignity and kindness. They thank all who looked after him, especially the teams at Nashoba Park in Ayer and Unit 4A at Bedford VA. Go to www.badgerfuneral.com for service information.