By Steve Voellmecke
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of longtime diving coach and PDCA member Raymond A. Noble, affectionately known as “Ray”, on September 23, 2025, at the age of 68.
Ray grew up immersed in the world of diving and swimming, spending countless summers at Miami Hills Swim Club, where his family were charter members since its inception in 1963. It was there that he discovered his lifelong passion for the sport that would define much of his life.
In 1984, Ray became a vital part of the Maintenance Department of Indian Hill Schools — a role that combined his work ethic and dedication to the community. In 1988, Ray started coaching the diving team at the high school and quickly added several more schools to his busy schedule. Ray retired in 2012 but he continued to coach high school divers, leading many to championships and acclaim, including SIX State Champions, Five State Runners-up and had three former divers who competed at the Olympic Diving Trials in 1992, 2008, and 2020. Ray was also very proud that three of his former divers went on to graduate from U.S. Military Academies. His extraordinary contributions to the sport earned him recognition from the Ohio High School Athletic Association and the United States Professional Diving Coaches Association where he was the first ever recipient of the Ida Wilson Award given to a coach member for numerous and long-time contributions to the grassroots diving.
His passion for the sport we all love led to him to form Cincinnati Eastside Diving — a diving club that inspired many to try diving and embrace the sport. In 2003, Ray merged his team with DIVE Cincinnati where he coached until he retired in 2024. During that time, Ray also coached at several summer swim clubs around the Greater Cincinnati area. In his more than 35 years of coaching diving, Ray shaped the lives of thousands of young athletes across the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky areas.
Beyond his remarkable coaching career, Ray was devoted to his family, including his son, daughter, and his two cherished grandchildren. He was an active member of the Sons of the American Legion at the Milford Post 450 and took great joy in fishing and camping at The Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, which he lovingly considered his home away from home.
Ray Noble’s life was defined by his kindness, dedication, and passion for nurturing the next generation. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and uplift those who were fortunate to know him.
Rest in peace, Ray.