Gary Morris Knowles, age 78, a resident of Columbia, passed away on Monday, July 15, 2024, at his residence.
Born on April 8, 1946, in Maury County, Gary was the son of the late Ernest W. Knowles and the late Helen Hall Knowles. He graduated from Haylong High School in 1964 and later earned a bachelor’s degree in arts from the University of Tennessee in 1975. A proud veteran of the United States Army, Gary served during the Vietnam War. He devoted many years of his career to social work in children’s services, and previously worked in restaurant management. Gary was an avid outdoorsman who loved fishing and camping, and he was an avid sports enthusiast, especially of the U.T. Vols.
He is survived by his son, Michael (Christina) Knowles of Columbia, Tennessee, sister, Teri (Bobby) Nolen of Summertown, Tennessee, brother in law, Doug Burns of Columbia, Tennessee, grandson, Zachary Knowles of Columbia, Tennessee, niece, Beth (Jim) Hamilton of Columbia, Tennessee, great nephew, J.T. Hamilton of Columbia, Tennessee, and special cousin and friend, Janice Jones.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Tommy R. Knowles, Sandra K. Burns, and Edwin D. Knowles.
The family will celebrate his life with a private service. Heritage Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
