Ernest Edwin Knowles
By: Terry McDaniel
Updated: November 14, 2012
United States Air Force Chief Master Sergeant Retired, Ernest Edwin Knowles of Dothan, passed peacefully from this life on November 14, 2012 at the age of 80 due to an extended illness.
Funeral services for Mr. Knowles will be held at 11 AM Saturday, November 17, 2012 in Clearman Chapel at Southern Heritage with Reverend Ricky Plummer officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Hebron United Methodist Church with Southern Heritage directing. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Flowers will be accepted or donations may be made to Disabled Veterans of America or Gentiva Hospice of Dothan.
Edwin was born on May 21, 1932 and raised in the Cottonwood area, graduating from Cottonwood High School with the class of 1951. An avid football player, he went on to attend the University of Florida in Gainesville. At the age of 18, he joined the U.S. Army. During his four year service in the Army he served a tour in Korea and he then joined the U.S. Air Force. During his 28 year career in the military he also served several tours in Vietnam, Spain and was stationed at many U.S. Bases including Eglin AFB, Ft. Walton, Florida and Edwards AFB in California. While stationed at Davis-Monthan AFB in Tucson, Arizona he retired and moved back to the Cottonwood area. During his service in the Air Force, he was the proud recipient of the Bronze Star and was awarded many service ribbons for his outstanding dedication to the service of his country.
Edwin was preceded in death by his loving wife, Josie Mae Knowles, his mother, Iris Myrle Monday and an uncle, Henry Knowles.
Mr. Ed as he was lovingly called by family members is survived by a son, Edwin Wayne Knowles and his fianc, Sonya Garrett, Dothan; daughter, Carol Smith, Roswell, NM; four granddaughters, Chris Burkeston and husband, Kevin, Becky Hicks and husband, G.E., Amanda Smith, Lisa McDonald and husband, Chris; great grandchild, Henry McDonald. Also, surviving is a very special step-granddaughter and caregiver, Amanda Hutto, who donated her time and love unconditionally; step-grandson, Ethan McBride and wife, Marcy; five step-great grandchildren and a host of extended family, friends and classmates.
Pallbearers will be; Danny Jones, Mike Cirulli, Koby Smith, Ethan McBride, Rory Nichols, Michael Edmonson and Tyler Wolters.
The family would like to extend their appreciation and thanks to Gentiva Hospice for the devoted care during the past few weeks.
