Mr. James Joseph Knowles, Sr., 79, of Macon, passed away on Thursday, May 18, 2023. A graveside celebration of his life will be held on Monday, May 22, at 11:00 AM, at Glen Haven Memorial Gardens. The family will greet friends on Sunday, May 21, from 3:00 PM until 5:00 PM at FairHaven Funeral Home.
Mr. Knowles was born on April 12, 1944, in Macon, Georgia, to the late Mr. Paul Wesley Knowles and Mrs. Josephine Mannheim Knowles. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy, during the Vietnam War. Mr. Knowles retired from the Macon-Bibb County Fire Department, after 25-plus years of service. Following his retirement, he had a second career at Home Depot.
An avid classic car collector, he was a member of the Middle Georgia Cruisers Car Club. He enjoyed attending swap meets and spending time with his family and friends. He was a Master Gardener and board member of the Porter-Ellis Community Center.
Mr. Knowles was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Mrs. Barbara Jean McBride Knowles, and his brothers John W. Knowles and William M. Knowles.
Mr. Knowles is survived by one daughter, Ginger Nelms of Macon, one son, James Knowles, Jr. and wife Sherry of Gray, one stepson Brian Cherry and wife Angie of Warner Robins, six grandchildren, Rachel Nelms of Rock Hill, SC, Raymond Nelms III of Macon, Chandler Knowles and wife Kayla of Haddock, Chloe Knowles of Gray, Ashlynn Cherry of Perry, and Madisyn Cherry of Warner Robins; three sisters, Mrs. Sarah (James) Stokes and Mrs. Paula (Walter) Gwathney of Centerville, and Mrs. Mary Jo (Harold) Dodson of Blythewood, SC, and numerous nephews and a niece.
In lieu of flowers donations it is requested that donations be made to the Macon Rescue Mission, 6601 Zebulon Road, Macon, GA 31220.
Friends may sign the online registry at www.fairhavenmacon.com.
FairHaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services has charge of arrangements.