Catherine Knowles

Catherine (Kay) Knowles (85) of Lehigh Acres, passed away Sunday, July 17, 2016. She was born of Irish Immigrants Patrick and Catherine McGuinness on Oct. 11, 1930 in Jersey City, NJ. In 1950, she married the love of her life, John W. Knowles. Together they had 4 daughters, Marcella, Patti, Kathy, & Sue. In March 1966, Kay and Johnny lost their first born, Marcella, at the tender age of 14. She was also predeceased by her husband, parents and a sister, Marion Christopher. We know that they are all together with Marcella in Heaven.

Formerly of Wood-Ridge NJ, the family moved to Lehigh Acres Fl in 1972. She retired from Sun Trust Bank where she worked as a Customer Service Representative until 1997.

Left to mourn her passing are her beloved daughters, Patti Knowles of Las Cruces, NM, Kathy Knowles and Sue Mercurio (Tommy) of Lehigh Acres. Grandchildren: Kari Montgomery, Tiffany Mercurio, TJ Mercurio (Kristy), Michael, Nicholas, and Cara Rossi. Nine great-grandchildren: Jadon, Logan, Cole, Liana, Rhylie, Kendall, Vinnie, Autumn, a great-granddaughter, Payton who is due at any time and numerous nieces and nephews.

Our mother was our strength. She guided us with a soft heart and strong hands. We miss her dearly and know that our family will one day be reunited in Heaven.

We would like to thank the staff at Calusa Harbour in Fort Myers and Hope Hospice in Lehigh Acres for the wonderful, loving care she received.

The family will be receiving visitors at St. John XXIII, 13060 Palomino Lane, Fort Myers, FL on Saturday, July 23, 2016 at 9:30 in the morning. Funeral Mass will follow visitation with internment at Lee Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Kay’s honor to the charity of your choice. Arrangements under the direction of Hodges Funeral Home at Lee Memorial Park, Fort Myers, FL.