It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Ronald Crawford Knapp, affectionately known as “Ronnie” and to many as “Buzz.” Ronnie was a lifelong resident of Malcolm, Alabama, in Washington County.
Ronnie was a proud United States Army Veteran having served during the Vietnam War.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Crawford and Elizabeth (Betty) Knapp; his brother, Randy Knapp; his beloved in-laws, Frieda and Sydney Donald; his stepson, Joey Lewis; and the love of his life and forever companion, Barbara Donald Knapp.
He is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Gilmore (Larry); his cherished grandsons, Garrison and Griggs Gilmore; his brother, Jeff Knapp (Amy); his sister, Angela Forbus (Gary); and a host of nieces and nephews whom he dearly loved. He leaves behind his cherished friends Bobby and Puff Moore.
Ronnie was a devoted member of Malcolm Baptist Church and Blackwell Masonic Lodge #899. He was widely known for his skill and pride in operating heavy machinery, dedicating many years of service to Local #653 and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
He also held a special place in his heart for Spanish Wells, Bahamas, where he treasured the community, the people, and the many memories he made there.
The family respectfully requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Ronnie’s honor to Wounded Warrior Alabama.
Graveside services with military honors will be held on Friday, January 2, 2026 at Forest Lawn Cemetery, 10000 Celeste Road, Saraland, Alabama beginning at 10:00 a.m.
Condolences may be offered at www.radneyfuneralhome-saraland.com.
