Thelma (Holmes) McKnight

THELMA McKNIGHT

Age 91, of Sheraden, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, November 4, 2022. After overcoming many losses throughout her life and recovering from so many medical challenges over the past several years, we all thought that maybe she was invincible and would continue to be with us forever.  But, at the age of 91 (soon to be 92 as she would tell everybody) and after having a full and rewarding life.  Her body apparently could fight no longer, and she left us to be with the Lord and all her loved ones that had gone before her.

A loving wife and mother, grandmother and great grandma, aunt, sister, confidant, advisor, and friend.  She will be so missed by those of us left behind.

Thelma was a loving and soft-spoken person, yet very strong.  After losing her husband Jim, the love of her life, over 40 years ago, and despite her dependence on him and the grief over her loss, she kept strong for her family.  She ensured a stable life for them, while keeping the memory of her husband alive and flourishing throughout the remainder of her life.  Lastly, and probably the most comforting to us all, is that her and Jim are united again on the other side watching over us together.

Thelma was a very wise woman.  Welcoming and comforting to all.  Her home reflected that same aura she kept about her. At her home and in her presence, you always felt loved and comforted.  Many a family member, or friend, worked through their problems and challenges in life with her by simply spending time on her front porch, chatting in the living room, enjoying a coffee in her kitchen, or an amazing meal at her dining room table.

For many, memories of holidays at her house enjoying great food, and chocolate chip cookies will be remembered with laughter, joy, and the feeling of togetherness.  For her immediate family, Sunday meals, at her house, are probably the most remembered.  It was there that she brought us all together, instilling the value of family.  Over the years, she watched her family grow and expand. She was not a person of great wealth, but what Thelma had to offer us was more valuable than anything in the world.

Thelma’s children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren were the focus of her life. She beamed with pride and love over every single one of them. She stayed in-tune and involved with all of their lives up to her last breath. Her example on how to live a good and faithful life was instilled in us all and as we move on without her physical presence, what she taught us will remain forever.

Although our hearts are breaking from our loss, we can feel at ease knowing that so many of her loved ones have been waiting for her and are now enjoying being reunited with her for eternity – oh what a party they must be having now!

Thelma was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Grace Holmes, her husband, Jim McKnight (and all of his brothers and sisters), her brothers, Robert, Jack, Harry and Butch Holmes and her beloved sister, Shirley Knight.

She is survived by her daughters, Janet Bliss and Nancy McKnight. Her son, Jim McKnight, and daughter-in-law Janet McKnight. Her grandchildren, Dan Bliss (Beth), Shane Bliss, Jimmy McKnight (Shelby), Zachary McKnight, Sarah Hutzler (Casey). Her great-grandchildren, Addie Bliss, the twins, Casey Hutzler Jr. and Grace Lynne Hutzler, and Riley Ann McKnight (arriving in March, 2023).

We wish you a happy send off mom, grandma (Big “T”), great grandma Thelma, aunt Thelma, friend.  We love you and although our hearts are aching now, we can move forward with confidence, you will stay in our hearts and watch over us forever.  You showed us that life can be amazing and rewarding, even after a loss. Losing you has already put a great void in our souls, but we will honor your life by moving forward and following in your loving example.  Rest in Peace.

Family and friends are welcomed WEDNESDAY from 2-8 PM at the William F. Conroy Funeral Home, 2944 Chartiers Avenue, Sheraden. Funeral Mass in St. Philip Catholic Church, 50 W. Crafton Avenue, Crafton on Thursday at 10 AM.  Interment in Resurrection Cemetery.

You may express your condolences through our online tribute wall at www.wfconroyfuneralhome.com.

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