PENDER COUNTY — It is with heavy hearts and cherished memories that we announce the peaceful passing of Lewellyn Knowles, a treasured soul who graced this world with her presence on February 18, 1935, in Pender County, North Carolina. Lewellyn departed this earthly journey on June 9, 2026, at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and warmth that will forever be etched in the hearts of all who knew her.
Born to James and Bessie Jones, Lewellyn was a beacon of light from the beginning. Her life was a tapestry woven with love and dedication to family, friends, and her community. She was predeceased by her loving husband, JC Knowles, her beloved daughter Lynette Knowles, her sisters Melva Matthews and Elizabeth Larrimore, and her brother James Jones.
Lewellyn’s legacy continues through her surviving family who were the center of her world. Her daughter, Brenda Knowles McArthur (Charles) Her granddaughters, Allison Moore (Nathan), Mary Charles Messenger (Brad), and the devoted Jordan Williams Hudak (Matthew), who cared for her with unwavering love and attention, ensured her final years were filled with comfort and happiness. Great grandchildren, McArthur Moore and Eli Messenger and her special great grand dog Millie Mae Hudak. She is also survived by her sister Elsie Nicolson, her special sister-in-law Mary Lee Strickland, and her treasured nieces Patricia Wells, Shirley James, Cynthia Merritt and Cathy Tilley. Lewellyn was blessed with special daughters, Lynn Futrell, Linda Hudak and Melony Henderson; her special friend Travis Horrell who brought additional warmth and companionship into her life. She was also very fortunate to have such a loving and caring medical team over the years Lindsey Jernigan FNP, Sheba Hughes, MA (also her adopted granddaughters) and was very fortunate to have been cared for by Nikki Browning FNP and her team in her last month of her life.
Lewellyn spent many fulfilling years working at JP Stephens, alongside her husband, on their cherished farm. Their shared labor was not just a career but a testament to their partnership and love for the land. A dedicated member of Willard Baptist Church for many years, Lewellyn’s faith was a cornerstone of her life, providing her with strength and solace.
Her love for her family was matched only by her love for nurturing her garden and preparing meals that brought everyone together. Her kitchen was often filled with the comforting aroma of her cooking, a true testament to her belief that food was love. Her garden, vibrant with the colors and scents of the plants she lovingly tended, was a reflection of her nurturing spirit.
Lewellyn was a remarkable woman who, through her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering love, made the world a better place. She will be deeply missed but will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends. Her spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to be part of her remarkable journey. May she rest in eternal peace, reunited with her loved ones, and forever in the embrace of the Lord.
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