William Francis Knox

January 10, 1935 – June 20, 2026

It is with deep sadness and profound gratitude for a life well lived that we announce the passing of William Francis Knox who passed away peacefully on June 20, 2026 at the age of 91.

Born on January 10, 1935 in St. Brendan’s, Bonavista Bay, William (Bill) lived a life defined by hard work, devotion to family, kindness, loyalty, respect for others, and unwavering faith. He believed that honest work was both a responsibility and a privilege, and throughout his life he demonstrated a remarkable work ethic that earned the admiration of all who knew him. Above all else, William cherished his family. He was a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend whose greatest joy came from spending time with those he loved. His guidance, wisdom, and quiet strength provided a foundation for generations of family members who will continue to carry his values forward.

Known for his kindness and generosity, William treated everyone with dignity and respect. He was loyal to his family, friends, and community, always willing to lend a helping hand or offer words of encouragement. Faith was a cornerstone of his life. His trust in God guided his actions, shaped his character, and sustained him through life’s joys and challenges. He lived his beliefs through service, humility, and love for others. William leaves behind a legacy of integrity, perseverance and devotion. Though he will be deeply missed, his example will continue to inspire all who knew and loved him.

William is predeceased by his loving wife of 66 years Martina Knox (Mackey), parents William and Catherine (Kelly) Knox, brothers Thomas Knox (Ellen) and Patrick Knox (Maryanne); sisters Sarah Hynes (Michael), Ellen Bridgeman (Bernard), Josephine Samson (Herbert), Rita Lewis (Patrick), Mary Ann; brothers in law Leonard Mackey, William Mackey and Michael Bridgeman.

Left to mourn with an abundance of cherished memories are his daughters Anne (Leo), Yvonne (Ken), Marion (Loyola-deceased), Patsy (Ed), Colleen (Lorne) and sons Leonard (Dianne), Bill (Cindy) and Ed (Susan). He also leaves behind grandchildren Bradley Knox (Christine), Jordan Knox (Sarah), Tyler Knox (Amy), Joshua Bridgeman, Jeremy Bridgeman (Kathryn), Randy White (Pamela), Kevin White (Mary), Katelyn Knox-Kelly (Kyle), Liam Knox, Emily Knox, Jake Knox, Danielle Turner (Adam), step granddaughter Jessica Strickland (Wade) and great-grandchildren Connor White, Sophie White, Ethan White, Alexander White, Henry Knox, James Knox, Isla Noble (step great-granddaughter).

Also left to mourn are his sister Mary, brothers-in law Francis Mackey (Bridget – deceased), Michael Mackey (Anne - deceased), Dennis Mackey (Maura), Louis Mackey (Judy), Edward Mackey (Phyllis - deceased); sisters-in law Anita Colbert (William – deceased), Alice Shallow (William), Carmel Conway (William), Marie Mackey, Irene Bandura and a large circle of nieces, nephews, other relatives and special friends.

The family of William would like to send special thank you to the doctors and staff of the Emergency and ICU Departments at the James Paton Memorial Regional Hospital in Gander and the CCU and Cardiac Units at the Health Sciences Centre, St. John’s. In addition, we would like to thank Dr. Casey and Lillian Paul for their excellent and attentive care. Finally, we would also wish to thank William’s homecare workers, Ruth, Patricia and Trisha for their excellent care over the past number of years.

“Those we love don’t go away they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard but always near, still loved, still missed and very dear”. Author Unknown

Visitation will be held at Stacey’s Funeral Home, Gander on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm and at St. Gabriel’s Parish Church, St. Brendan’s on Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 2:30 – 4:30 pm and 7-9 pm.

Funeral service will take place on Friday, June 26, 2026 at 11am at St. Gabriel’s Parish Church. Interment to follow at the Roman Catholic Cemetery.

As per William’s wishes, flowers gratefully accepted or donations in his memory may be made to the Autism Society, Diabetes Association, Heart and Stroke Foundation, Kidney Foundation of Canada (Atlantic Branch), or another charity of one’s choosing.

Funeral arrangements entrusted through Stacey’s Funeral Home, Gander.

When tomorrow starts without me,

Please try to understand

that an angel came and called my name

And took me by the hand.

The angel said my place was

Ready in Heaven far above and

That I’d have to leave behind

All those I dearly love.

But when I walked through

Heaven’s gate, I felt so much at home,

For God looked down,

Smiled at me and told me

“Welcome Home”. So when

Tomorrow starts without me,

Don’t think we’re far apart,

For every time you think of me,

I’m right there in your heart.