Harold M. Knowles, Sr. from Green Cove Springs, FL passed away at the age of 92 on Monday, March 23, 2026 at home with family. He was born to Willie M. (Buck) Knowles and Frances Bentley Knowles on March 14, 1934 in Green Cove Springs, FL.
Harold spent his entire life in Green Cove Springs. He graduated from Clay High with a football scholarship to Stetson University. He joined the Army in 1956 and served in the Military Police until his release in 1958. He married Jewel Oliver from Reidsville, GA on July 6, 1957. Upon his discharge from the Army, they returned to Green Cove Springs and continued to live in the same house to this day. He was a member of Hickory Grove Baptist Church since childhood, and a Mason since his 21st birthday in 1955. He served on the Clay County Volunteer Ambulance service, driving the ambulance and administering First Aid to those in need.
Harold was known as a hardworking man and was employed at Florida Machine and Foundry as a metals molder. Even with a full-time job and a growing family he managed to raise pigs and cows while doing a little farming on the side. Eventually, he was employed by Civil Service for NARF at NAS Jax where he worked until he retired.
To family he will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather.
Harold was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Betty Hoffman and Charlotte Lane, and brother William (Bill) Knowles and Harold’s daughter, Karen Knowles Myers. He is survived by his wife of nearly 69 years, Jewel Oliver Knowles, and children Susan Knowles Welch and Harold (Rooster) Knowles, Jr. He is also survived by 7 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.
A memorial service in his honor will be held in the Broadus-Raines Chapel on Tuesday, March 31 at 11am. Art Gipson, Pastor of Hickory Grove Baptist Church will officiate. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at www.broadusraines.com. Arrangements are under the care of Broadus-Raines Funeral Home, 501 Spring St., Green Cove Springs, FL 32043. (904) 284-4000.
