Della was born August 7, 1941, in Bluff Springs, IL, the daughter of Noah and Betty Lou Carpenter. She married Lee McKnelly on October 23, 1964, in Springfield; he preceded her in death on August 8, 2023.
Della was a devoted wife and mother who loved taking care of her family and spending time with her friends. She enjoyed being outdoors and watching the birds, loved the sunshine, and flowers.
She was also preceded in death by her parents; sons, Greg and Eddie; and six siblings.
Della is survived by her two sons, David McKnelly and Daniel McKnelly, both of Springfield; one daughter, Jamie McKnelly (husband, Michael Eller) of Springfield; grandchildren, Nick, Garrett, Margo, David, Jr., Brittany, Travis, Matt, Noah, Michael, Mason and Dominic; and eight great-grandchildren.
Visitation and Funeral Ceremony: Family will receive friends from 9:30 until 10:15 a.m. on Friday, September 13, 2024, at Butler Funeral Home-Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL. A Funeral Ceremony will follow at 10:30 a.m. with Celebrant Judy Woerner officiating.
Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery.
