Obituary of Margaret Elizabeth Knowles

Margaret E. Knowles, 98, formerly of Painted Post, passed away on August 24, 2023, at Bethany Manor in Horseheads. She was born April 9, 1925, in Corning, to Leon and Katharine Swarthout Holton. Peggy married Ernest Knowles of Watkins Glen, in 1941, and they had been married nearly 74 years when he died in 2015. 

Peg and Ernie raised three children and built three houses. She had a love for decorating, flower gardening, and landscaping. She enjoyed drawing, painting, cooking, and reading. After her children were grown, she worked as a realtor. Peg was an avid reader and researcher of information, especially of antiques, which she and Ernie enjoyed collecting in their retirement years. They also shared a love of music and dancing and were members of several local jazz and dance groups for many years. They were often the first couple on the dance floor when the music started. Local musicians knew their favorite song was “Crazy” and would often play it when Ernie and Peg arrived.

Peggy is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Lonnie and Shido Knowles; daughter and son-in-law, Valerie and Gary Howe; grandchildren, Stephanie (James) Spry, Sean (Emily Sheridan) Howe, Erin Howe (Marc Schuricht), Aric Knowles, Serina Knowles, Brian Williams, and Brandon Williams; great-grandchildren, Chelsi (Josh) Diegs, Brandon (Addie) Showalter, Alexis (Lea) Wojciechowski-Spry, Isla Schuricht; three great-great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; brothers-in law, Harry Knowles, and Stanley (Esther) Knowles; brother, Kenneth. In addition to her husband, Peggy was predeceased by her daughter, Kathie Long, grandson, David Ruocco, and sisters, Frances Allen, Florence Fuller, and Freda Johnson.

There will be no calling hours.  The family will hold a graveside ceremony at a time to be determined.  Please consider donating to a favorite local musician or a charity of one’s choosing.