Willie Knox

Willie Edward Knox, affectionately known as “Ed”, was born on November 27, 1965, in Chicago, Illinois to the late Willie Pounds and Theresa Knox. Ed was the fifth of six children. His sister Alisa, and brothers Fred and Darrell, preceded him in death.

Ed graduated from Jean Baptiste Point DuSable High School in Chicago, Illinois. Ed was in a long-term relationship with Michelle Gaither which produced his only child Edward Gaither “the apple of his eye”. He raised his son from birth as a single parent.

Ed was a very good cook, and he loved it. He spent most of his adult life working in Hospitality cooking for other.

Ed loved being a Mason, he joined Jerusalem 122 Jacksonville Florida in 2012 and he was a dedicated active member for years, until his health began to decline leaving him more homebound.

Ed accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior early in life and became a member of Oakdale Baptist Church under the late Reverend Willie B. Jemison

Ed realized he made many mistakes in his early years and would conversate with any young man who would listen. He would encourage them to be better men to themselves, and not walk down the same path as he did as a young man.

Ed departed this life on Sunday July 13, 2025 at the University of Florida Health Hospital, in Jacksonville Florida.

Ed leaves to cherish in his memory his beloved son Edward Gaither, two sisters, Shirley Henderson, and Michelle Knox, two nephews, Cameron Knox and Marshall Knox, four nieces, Sherice Hines, Alisa Knox, Sherry Knox and Alexis Knox. His childhood friend Jerry Willis, and a host of cousins and friends.