Born on January 5, 1932, in Abilene, Roy lived a life rooted in hard work, faith, and devotion to family, He spent many years in the construction and landfill business, where he was known for his strong work ethic, reliability, and pride in honest labor.
Roy married the love of this life, Peggy Joyce, his high school sweetheart, and together they shared 72 years of marriage-a lasting testament to enduring love and steadfast commitment. A devoted man of faith, Roy was deeply involved in his church community, where he faithfully served as a greeter. He was known for his warm smile, welcoming spirit, and for offering a hug to all who entered the doors. Found within Roy’s Bible was a note written to Roy from Peggy in 1971, reflecting their shared faith and devotion: “Next to Jesus, I love you most, and because I love you, I love Him more.”
Roy leaves behind a lasting legacy through his children: his son Glenn Knowles; his daughter, Keri St. John; his son-in-law, Terry St. John; along with five grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward the values he lived by.
Roy will be remembered for his integrity, kindness, and the steady, loving presence he was to all who knew him.
A visitation will be held on Monday, December 29, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home 5701 U.S. Highway 277 S. A graveside service will take place on Tuesday, December 30, at 10:00 a.m. followed by a celebration of life honoring Roy’s Memory at First Methodist Church at 11:00 a.m.
Those wishing to honor Roy may do so through contribution to Butman Methodist Camp, Gold Monarch Healing Center, First Methodist Church, all of Abilene, or Bynum School of Midland.
