Dorman Lee Knowles passed away on Feb. 2, 2025, at home on Amelia Island, Fla., at the age of 93. Mr. Knowles played football and boxed while attending Red Bank High School and serving in the Navy, earning two Golden Gloves and a National Title, having never lost a fight. This led to his induction into the Greater Chattanooga Sportsman Hall of Fame. He was a champion boxer who carried that same tenacity into the Navy, serving in the Naval Air Corp and flying from various carriers during the Korean War. He approached every challenge with the same grit and determination that earned him the respect of his peers. After the war he moved to Manchester with his wife to become a member of First Baptist Church and begin his career at AEDC. Since his retirement he had been actively involved in the lives of his three grandchildren and great grandson. Mr. Knowles was the kindest, most generous man whose primary focus in life was helping others coupled with his deep faith and love for God. He always showed unconditional love for his family and friends, enriching the lives of the people who knew him. It is hard to imagine the scope of his 93+ years of experiences and adventures, though many have experienced them in real life or through his incredible stories. He had many character traits that uniquely defined him. His days revolved around inspiring and sometimes bewildering others with his quick wit and in-depth knowledge of all facts known to man. His walk of life is his legacy to his family and friends; he was a generous soul who could make anyone feel special. Mr. Knowles was predeceased by his parents Rose and Claude Knowles and his two brothers, Claude Knowles Jr (Barbara) and George Knowles (Sally).  He is survived by   his wife, Hildegarde Landers Knowles; two daughters, Mary Micah Dumas and Kelly Fleming (Charles); two brothers, Joe Knowles (Joyce), Bill Knowles (Marlene); sister, Virginia Pell; three grandchildren, Rachel Dumas (Robert), Parker Dumas, Gardner Fleming; and a great grandson, Alexandre Croom. He also leaves many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles and countless friends who will remember his warmth, kindness and humor he brought into their lives. Mr. Knowles was loved by many and will forever be remembered and sorely missed. Dates, times and locations of services will be Sunday, Feb. 23, 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church, Manchester and Monday Feb. 24, 1:00 p.m. EST at Chattanooga National Cemetery Pavilion, followed by a reception at 2 p.m. at Advantage Funeral Home, located at 1724 McCallie Avenue. In lieu of flowers, please consider a charity of your choice.

Private Obituary