Noyes Family Honors Late Mother’s Legacy by Providing Thanksgiving Dinners to 96 Families
As families continue to grapple with the lingering challenges of post-hurricane recovery, the Noyes family of Clearwater, Florida, remains steadfast in their mission to give back to their community. During the weekend before Thanksgiving, the family carried on their cherished tradition of Operation Stone Soup, providing 96 local families with complete Thanksgiving dinner packages, including a turkey and all the trimmings.
This year’s effort is especially poignant, as it honors what would have been their late mother Mary Noyes’ 96th birthday on November 27th. The initiative, which has been spreading hope and strengthening community ties for more than 20 years, is particularly meaningful in light of the ongoing struggles many families face after recent hurricanes.
Operation Stone Soup: A Legacy of Love and Giving
The Operation Stone Soup project began in 2003 after the passing of Mary Noyes, a beloved music teacher who devoted 26 years to St. Cecelia School in Clearwater. Mary’s life was defined by her passion for music, education, and her unwavering commitment to family and community. Inspired by her spirit of generosity, Mary’s 11 children and 31 grandchildren launched the project to honor her legacy of giving back.
The tradition started with the family providing Thanksgiving dinners to 75 families, reflecting Mary’s age at the time of her passing. Each year since, the number of families served has increased by one, symbolizing what would have been Mary’s birthday that year. The 96 families served in 2024 are referred by local food banks, ensuring the meals reach those in greatest need.
Spreading Hope Through Family and Community
“This tradition is a way to honor the values our mother instilled in us—working together as a family to make the world a better place,” shared Matthew Noyes, one of Mary’s children. “Mom taught us that while no one person can help everyone, everyone can help one person. That’s the heart of Operation Stone Soup, and we’re proud to carry it forward in her memory.”
The Noyes family’s dedication to providing for those in need has brought comfort and joy to countless families over the years, creating a ripple effect of generosity throughout their community. Despite challenges like the aftermath of hurricanes, the family continues to uphold their mother’s legacy, embodying the spirit of Thanksgiving by making it a time of hope, connection, and gratitude.
A Tradition That Inspires
As the Noyes family looks forward to the future, they remain committed to their mission of strengthening community ties and helping those in need. Their efforts not only honor Mary Noyes’ legacy but also serve as a powerful reminder of the impact one family can have when they come together to make a difference.
Noyes Family Foundation 