Willis Lee Knott

Willis Lee Knott, 88, of Bridgewater, passed away on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.

He was born on September 2, 1937 in Mt. Solon, VA, and was a son of the late Robert A. and Bessie B. (Moyers) Knott.

Willis 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 and later worked at both the Dodge and Ford dealerships in Harrisonburg, 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. Willis was also a longtime and faithful member of Emmanuel Church of the Brethren in Mt. Solon.

Willis was united in marriage on May 1, 1964, to A. Sue (Miller) Knott, who survives. They were blessed with 62 years of marriage.

Willis is survived by a foster sister, Betty Jones; two children, Tamela "Tammy" (Sean) Jones, and Patty (Roy) Gray; he adored his four grandchildren, Ethan (Abby) Jones, Katelyn (Lydia Hearn) Jones, Jacob Gray, and Kelsey Gray.

He is also preceded in death by an infant sister, Evelyn May Knott.

The family will receive friends from 11 until 12 PM on Saturday, Feb 14, 2026, at Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service in Bridgewater.

A memorial service celebrating Willis's life will be held at 2 PM on Feb. 15th, at Emmanuel Church of th Brethren in Mt. Solon, with Pastors Tom Williams and Tim Ball officiating. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Bridgewater Rescue Squad.

In honor of Willis's memory, his family encourages everyone to attend a car show, enjoy a scoop of ice cream, and take in a good gospel sing.

Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service in Bridgewater. Online condolences may be shared with the family at johnsonfs.com.