Elizabeth Knott Czarnik

Elizabeth Knott Czarnik, of Franklin, Tennessee, passed away on March 15, 2025, with her daughters by her side. Born on May 3, 1924, in Williamson County’s Hillsboro community (now Leiper’s Fork), she was the second of four children of Jones and Bessie Gordon Knott.

Elizabeth was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Edward Joseph Czarnik, whom she met on her 18th birthday at the Grand Ole Opry in the summer of 1942, as World War II loomed and troops trained in Tennessee. A Chicago soldier, Edward became the love of her life, and together they built a family of four children. She was also predeceased by her brothers, Charles and John, her sister, Jane, and most recently, her eldest son, Edward Lee Czarnik (Pearl) of Eagleville, who passed away just a week before her, a heartbreaking loss during her final days.

Elizabeth is survived by three of her four children: John Czarnik (Jan) of Franklin, Patti Czarnik (Tom Marshall) of Nashville, and Janice Anderson (Garrett) of Franklin. She leaves behind nieces, nephews, six grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren, all of whom she adored.

Throughout her life, Elizabeth evolved personally and professionally—from homemaker to retail clerk, shop owner, and later into pediatrics administration, where her warmth and energy touched many. In the 1970s, she and Edward helped establish Fugate’s Flea Market in western North Carolina, sharing treasures from their many travels. After Edward’s passing on Christmas Day in 1997, she carried on with resilience and unwavering spirit.

Known lovingly as "Banny" to her family, she cherished holiday gatherings at her Franklin home, Christmas shopping, Easter egg hunts, and road trips with her daughters—all marked by her trademark independence, sass, and vitality. Even at over 100 years old, she remained remarkably active, driven by her deep love for her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Her heart also belonged to the Great Smoky Mountains, particularly Maggie Valley, NC, where she maintained a home and a passion for flea markets. Fondly known as "Miss Liz, the quilt lady," she was a beloved fixture in the community.

Elizabeth will be profoundly missed by her family, friends, and her devoted Shih Tzu, Woody. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the physicians and staff at Ascension St. Thomas West and NHC at The Trace for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital, in honor of her great-granddaughter currently battling leukemia, or to the Williamson County Animal Center, reflecting her lifelong love for animals.

A gathering of family & friends for Elizabeth will be held Friday, March 21, 2025 from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Woodlawn-Roesch-Patton Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 660 Thompson Ln, Nashville, TN 37204. A celebration of life will occur Friday, March 21, 2025 from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM, 660 Thompson Ln, Nashville, TN 37204. An internment will occur Friday, March 21, 2025 from 1:30 PM to 2:00 PM at Woodlawn Memorial Park, 600 Thompson Ln, Nashville, TN 37211.