Horace Wiley Knowles

Posted on October 23, 2024

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of a beloved member of the community, Horace Wiley Knowles. Horace was a dedicated rural letter carrier, serving his community with pride and diligence. His journey began in the rural town of Shady Grove, where he was born on Dec. 24, 1926. Horace’s life was defined by his unwavering love for his family. He found great joy in the simplicity of life, often spending his time hunting, f ishing and crafting in his woodworking shop. He was also a farmer who grew tobacco, and he also grew vegetables for his family and friends. Something that people may not know is that Horace was a licensed building contractor. He built his own home, his river house and helped with construction projects for the church. Horace and Mary Lee were devoted members of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, where they both were active in the choir, and he held the esteemed role of deacon. Horace’s faith a was cornerstone of his existence, and his presence at church was unwavering, a testament to his strong Christian values. Married to his beloved wife, Mary Lee, for an impressive 74 years, Horace’s commitment to family and community was truly remarkable. His warm smile and kind spirit touched the lives of all who had the pleasure of knowing him. In honor of his memory, a public visitation was held at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church on Oct. 21, at 10 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m. Burial took place at the church cemetery. The family invited all who knew and loved Horace to come together to celebrate his life, share stories and find comfort in the memories he left behind. Horace Wiley Knowles will forever remain in our hearts, a shining light that will guide us through the most challenging times. He is survived by: his children, Sharon Carr (Claude Jones), Mike (Debbie) Knowles and Nancy (Jimmy) Lundy; nine grandchildren, Ron (Jessica) Cannon, Lori (Mark) Wiggins and Carrie (Spence) O’Steen, Claire (Wade) Humphries, Justin (Raven) Knowles, Ben (Laura) Knowles, Zachary (Tiyonna) Knowles, Garrett (Rhonda) Lundy and Jessica Edwards; 23 greatgrandchildren; two greatgreat grandchildren and one on her way; and his devoted loving caregiver, Shelli Fletcher. In his absence, we find solace in the knowledge that his legacy of love and faith will live on in those who were fortunate enough to have known him. Horace was preceded in death by: his wife, Mary Lee Knowles; his parents, Elby and Hattie Wilson Knowles; his brothers, Luther, Hulen, Rudolph and Wilburn Knowles; and his sisters, Oween Cruce, Geraldine Perryman and Cora Lee Andrews.