Donald “Don” Carl Knowles

Donald “Don” Carl Knowles, age 70, passed away Monday evening, June 5, 2023.
 
A native of Rome, Donald was born on August 25, 1952, to the late Charles Donald Knowles and Ferrell Ann Cook Knowles. He was a 1970 graduate of Coosa High School and a football team member. Don played travel softball throughout his years and was also on All-Star Teams. He threw darts and played in multiple tournaments, and won State Champion. He was an avid Bulldogs and Atlanta Braves fan and did not miss a game.
 
Don worked at Mohawk Industries for many years before moving to Shaw Industries, where he retired.
 
He is survived by his son, Jamey (Linda) Koch; his daughter Stephanie Abbott and former son-in-law Michael T. Abbott; his grandchildren, Jesse Abbott, Benny Abbott, Tori Garrett, Jacey Koch, Cameron Barber, and Cole Koch; his great-grandchildren Landon Ely, Adelynn Ely, and Cade Lowe. He also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Don’s love for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren is what he lived for. He always took a special interest in what they were doing and was very proud of them.
 
In addition to his parents, Don is preceded in death by his wife, Mary Tharpe Stevens Knowles, whom he married on November 29, 1980.
 
Don was loved by many and had many close family friends that he loved like they were his own children; Patrick and Liz Hilburn, Kenneth “KJ” Jones, Rachel and Taylor Puryear, Vicky Dickert, and Dennis Waddell, his special friend, Lisa Hilburn and his constant companion, his dog Rooty.
 
Per Don’s request, he will be cremated. Services will be conducted on Friday, June 9, 2023, in the Chapel of Good Shepherd Funeral Home, 2750 Shorter Avenue with a Visitation from 6:00PM - 7:00PM and a Memorial Service at 7:00PM. Reverend Kenneth “KJ” Jones officiating. Don’s eulogy will be given by his son Jamey Koch. Special music by Montie Esworthy.
 
Following the memorial, the family will be at the residence of his son, Jamey (Linda) Koch, at 8 Williamsburg Drive., Rome, Georgia.
 
Parnick Jennings Sr. Good Shepherd Funeral Home has charge of the arrangements.

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