In 1974, Noble became the first openly lesbian (or gay) candidate elected to to the Massachusetts House of Representatives. Noble came out first in 1974 as an open lesbian after being elected. She won re-election easily in 1976.

During her second term, Anita Bryant began her anti-gay crusade, and Noble came under more pressure than ever to speak out on behalf of lesbians and gays. When not in politics, she has worked in health-care administration and consulting.

Noble had a relationship with writer Rita Mae Brown in the 1970s and has since retained privacy regarding her personal life. She lives in Florida.