Willis Lee Knott, 88, of Bridgewater, Virginia, passed away on Feb. 11, 2026.
He was born on Sept. 2, 1937, in Mt. Solon, Virginia, and was a son of the late Robert A. and Bessie B. (Moyers) Knott.
Mr. Knott was a 1954 graduate of North River High School and continued his education at Woodrow Wilson Technical School. He began his career in the automotive industry at Barton Motors in Staunton, Virginia, and later worked at both the Dodge and Ford dealerships in Harrisonburg, Virginia, concluding his career as service manager at the Ford dealership.
He had a love for antique cars and enjoyed attending parades with his grandchildren when they were young.
He was also a longtime and faithful member of Emmanuel Church of the Brethren in Mt. Solon, Virginia.
On May 1, 1974, he was united in marriage to A. Sue (Miller) Knott, who survives. They were blessed with 62 years of marriage.
Also surviving are a foster sister, Betty Jones; two children, Tamela “Tammy” (Sean) Jones, and Patty (Roy) Gray; and four grandchildren whom he adored, Ethan (Abby) Jones, Katelyn (Lydia Hearn) Jones, Jacob Gray, and Kelsey Gray.
He was also preceded in death by an infant sister, Evelyn May Knott.
A memorial service celebrating his life was held Sunday at Emmanuel Church of the Brethren in Mt. Solon, Virginia, with Pastors Tom Williams and Tim Ball officiating. Burial was private.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Bridgewater Rescue Squad. In honor of his memory, his family encourages everyone to attend a car show, enjoy a scoop of ice cream, and take in a good gospel sing.
Online condolences may be shared with the family at johnsonfs.com.
Arrangements were entrusted to Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service in Bridgewater, Virginia.
