James B. “Jimmy” Knowles, 56, of Salisbury, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at home on September 3, 2026. He was born in Euclid, Ohio, on June 24, 1970, to James D. and Maxine C. Knowles.

A lifelong lover of learning, Jimmy graduated from the University of Alabama in 1992 and earned a master’s degree from the University of Mississippi. He especially loved American History and was an enthusiastic college football fan. Few things brought him more pleasure than following the games. Music was another important part of Jimmy’s life. He loved listening to music and sharing it with others. It was one of the ways he connected with people and found joy in the world. 

Jimmy loved his family—especially his Mom and his nieces, Macy and Miles. His sisters called him Pal. He was their brother–their Pal–and someone who will always be part of their stories.

Jimmy was generous to strangers and had a particular ability to connect with children and young people. A proud Democrat and supporter of public schools, he was an excellent special education teacher who cared deeply about his students and understood that every child deserved respect, encouragement, and the chance to be seen for who they were.

Jimmy lived with struggles that were difficult for him and for those who loved him to understand. Despite this, he will be remembered as the smart and unconventional guy who cared about people.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his father, James D. Knowles.

He is survived by his mother, Maxine C. Knowles; his sister, Meredith K. Abramson (Andy) and nieces Macy and Miles; and his sister, Marley B. Knowles.

If anyone marched to the beat of his own drum, it was Jimmy Knowles. May he rest in peace.