House Resolution 48

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING THE LIFE AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF MR. CHARLIE KNOTT, JR., AND EXPRESSING DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS UPON HIS PASSING.

WHEREAS, Mr. Charlie Knott, Jr., born March 7, 1911, in Pocahontas, Mississippi, to the late Mr. Charlie Knott, Sr., and Ms. Estella Greenfield, the oldest of sixteen children, departed this earthly life to enter into eternal rest with his heavenly father, causing great loss to his family and friends; and

WHEREAS, known as "Little Charlie," he grew up on E.K. Milton Plantation in Pocahontas, where he worked with his father as a farmer until marrying in 1935; and

WHEREAS, having a rich ethnic history, Mr. Knott's paternal grandparents were Ms. Jane Bryant and Mr. Paul Knott, Sr., who was a Black Greek Indian, and his maternal grandparents were Ms. Laura Britton and Mr. Isaiah Greenfield, who was a native of Ireland; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Knott attended Mt. Hayes Elementary School in Pocahontas and later moved to Jackson in 1925, where he attended Smith Robinson School; and

WHEREAS, during his stay in Jackson, he met his guardian angel, Josie Lee Miller, whom he later married on February 23, 1935, at the Hinds County Circuit Clerk's office, and to their union five children were born: Shirley, Charlie C., Lessie B., Lawrence Lee and Charles T.; and three others adopted: Beatrice Miller, Mary Harris and Mary Moore; and

WHEREAS, living on Freeman Gale Farm for 44 years, where he raised his children and two grandchildren, Mr. Knott gained employment with Barnes Brother Nursery in 1941, and worked there until retiring at age 62; and

WHEREAS, the proud grandfather of 46 grandchildren, 68 great-grandchildren and 25 great-great-grandchildren, Mr. Knott was a member of the Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church for over 60 years, having served as president of the usher board, chairman of the finance committee and chairman of deacon board; and

WHEREAS, having dedicated his entire life to God and his family, Mr. Knott was an inspiration to many who shared in his life as he walked with pride, imparting love, wisdom, and knowledge among his family, friends and community; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to commend the lives of such an amazing individual as Mr. Knott, whose life was a testament of good will toward men and whose legacy will continue to be a beacon for the guidance and inspiration of his family:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend the life of Mr. Charlie Knott, Jr., and express deepest sympathy to his family and friends upon his passing.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to the family of Mr. Charlie Knott, Jr., and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.