James Edward Knickerbocker, 82, passed away Wednesday, June 18, 2025, in Ripely, MS. Jim was born on October 1, 1942, in Lansing, MI, to Jack and Donelda Lindley Knickerbocker and grew up in the Lions/Muir area in Michigan. He served in the United States Navy from 1960-1966. He met his wife Rhea through his sister, Gloria and had a crush on her for many years. After decades they were reunited and married for 38 years, just recently renewing their wedding vows earlier this year.
Jim is survived by his wife, Rhea Knickerbocker, his sons, Donald Garnsay, Joe Garnsay, and David Garnsay, his daughter, Betty Garnsay Jones, 7 grandchildren, and his nieces, Amanda, Kari, and Dee Dee.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Jack Knickerbocker, sister, Gloria Stevens, and his uncles, Pug and Bill.
A Memorial Service will be held at 12PM on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at First Baptist Church-Pontotoc with visitation beginning at 11:30AM. Dr. Ken Hester will officiate.
