Ronald John Knill

Ronald J. Knill, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and esteemed Professor Emeritus of Mathematics at Tulane University, passed away peacefully at home on May 19, 2026, at the age of 91. Born in Chicago to the late Anthony and Ada Knill, Ron earned his BS from Marquette University and his PhD from the University of Notre Dame. Alongside his long academic career, he contributed to physics and astronomy research and was an active member of the Clavius Group. Ron always said that teaching and working with mathematics was his hobby, not a job.

An avid and impulsive adventurer, Ron enjoyed travel, cycling, racquetball, swimming and waterslides. Driven by a playful analytical mind –- Ron threw himself into computers and reading and delighted in music and laughing with friends. His favorite hobby was tinkering and finding just the right tool at the local hardware store. At his core, he was a seeker, a strong individual drawn to thoughtful conversations–philosophical and spiritual. He had a deep and humble relationship with his religious practice.

Ron shared 67 beautiful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Barbara. He was a proud father to Joseph, the late David (Deborah Rossen-Knill), and Mary (Peter); cherished grandfather to Ari, Joshua (Rachel), MacKenzie, and Kaitlin (Victor); and brother to the late Shirley Mehring.

The family offers heartfelt thanks to the JCC ACE Program, caregivers Adriana Cheneau and Debra Prosper, and Compassus Hospice.

Visitation begins Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, at 1:00 PM, followed by a Funeral Mass at 2:00 PM, officiated by Fr. Tom Condon O.P. Reception follows.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: The Alzheimer's Care and Enrichment (ACE) Fund (Jewish Community Center, 5342 St. Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115) or The Tulane Catholic Center (1037 Audubon St, New Orleans, LA 70118)