Chris McKnelly (50) of Louisville

Chris McKnelly, 50, of Louisville passed away at 11:05 a.m. Sunday, December 26, 2021 at his home.

Chris was born on May 15, 1971, in Effingham, Illinois the son of Don and Jane McKnelly. Chris was a truck driver for many years traveling all around the U.S. He enjoyed the views as he traveled including the beautiful landscapes of Tennessee and many mountain areas. While he enjoyed traveling his heart belonged on his family’s farm where he especially enjoyed helping out on the farm with his father and family members. His children, grandchildren, nephews, and nieces were his world. Wherever the children were you could find Chris coming up with all kinds of shenanigans including taking them frog gigging or sledding. He would do anything to put a smile on their face. He loved to go fishing on a sunny day, ride his motorcycle, hunt for rocks, listen to music, and create his own homemade tools such as axes and knives. Gardening was a favorite hobby of his. He was known to enjoy planting all kinds of vegetables and flowers. His flowers this year were especially beautiful outside of his home. He was always creating something or searching for antiques of many kinds. One thing is for sure, he always greeted everyone with a smile and a hug. He never knew a stranger as long as he lived and would give anyone the shirt off of his back if they were in need.

Chris is survived by his parents Don and Jane McKnelly of rural Louisville; two daughters Roxi (David) Guinn of Bible Grove, Kaitlyn (Landon) Eade of Flora, Illinois; one son Tristan (A.J.) McKnelly of Albion, Illinois; three grandchildren Landrey, Corbin, and Quinn. He is also survived by one sister Brandi (Delbert) Young of Louisville and one brother Curt(Sandra) McKnelly of Louisville. Many beloved nieces, nephews, and friends also survive.

Chris was preceded in death by both sets of grandparents John and Linda McKnelly (rural Louisville) and Paul (Pood) and Juanita McKnelly (Louisville).  Several Cousins and friends also preceded him in death.

Funeral services honoring the life of Chris will be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, December 30, 2021 at the McGriff & Triplett Funeral Home in Louisville with Brent Bailey officiating, burial will follow at the Bible Grove Cemetery, Bible Grove. Visitation will be held on Thursday at the funeral home where friends may call from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Louisville American Legion or Donor’s Choice. Due to health concerns related to COVID-19, it is recommended that you please wear a mask and practice social distancing. To sign the guestbook online or share a memory please visit by clicking here.