Arizona Remembers Noel Campbell, a Leader Defined by Duty

A Life Defined by Service

Arizona is honoring the life of former State Representative Noel Campbell, who passed away at the age of 84 just days after a motorcycle accident on Interstate 10, according to his family. A Prescott native, Campbell served three terms representing Legislative District 1 from 2015 to 2021, leaving behind a legacy rooted in service, leadership, and duty.

Arizona House Speaker Steve Montenegro announced Campbell’s passing, reflecting on the breadth of his service and the impact he made throughout his life.

“Noel Campbell lived a life defined by service,” Montenegro said. “He served his country in uniform, protected our communities in the air and on the ground, and brought that same sense of duty to the Arizona House. Our state is better because he chose to serve.”

Service to Country and Community

Campbell’s commitment to public service began long before his election to the Arizona House. He served as a United States Navy combat aviator during the Vietnam War and later retired as a Commander in the Naval Reserves, a career that reflected leadership, discipline, and sacrifice.

After his military service, Campbell continued serving at the federal level. He worked as a pilot and agent with the United States Customs Service, and later as a wildfire pilot for the United States Forest Service, taking on dangerous missions to help protect communities, land, and lives during critical emergencies.

Across every role he held, Campbell demonstrated a willingness to step forward when service was required—often in high-risk environments where experience and calm judgment mattered most.

Leadership at the Arizona State Capitol

Campbell served three terms in the Arizona House during the 52nd, 53rd, and 54th Legislatures. During his time at the State Capitol, he chaired the House Transportation Committee in the 53rd and 54th Legislatures, where he earned a reputation for practical leadership and respect for the legislative process.

Colleagues viewed Campbell as steady and thoughtful, someone who understood both the responsibility of public office and the importance of listening. His approach to leadership emphasized collaboration, consistency, and a focus on serving the people of his district and the state of Arizona.

Remembered With Respect and Gratitude

Speaker Montenegro emphasized that Campbell’s impact extended far beyond policy or committee assignments, leaving a lasting impression on those who worked alongside him.

“Our prayers are with Noel’s wife, Mary Beth, his family, and all who were fortunate to know him,” Montenegro said. “He will be remembered with respect and gratitude.”

Representative Selina Bliss also reflected on Campbell’s legacy and the care he showed for those he represented.

“Noel Campbell was a champion for Legislative District 1 and for the state of Arizona,” Bliss said. “He served with honor and cared deeply about the people he represented. God bless him, and rest in peace.”

As Arizona remembers Noel Campbell, his life stands as an example of service carried out with humility, courage, and unwavering commitment—whether in uniform, in the cockpit, or in public office.