Joy Marie Knowles

Joy Marie Knowles of Caro, age 76, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 21, 2021 at United Hospice of Marlette. Joy was born July 31, 1944 in Caro, the daughter of the late Cloris & Joyce (Bradley) Robinson. She graduated from Caro High School in 1962 as treasurer of the class. Soon after, she enrolled at the Grace School of Nursing in Detroit to become a registered nurse. While at Grace, and in need of a ride home, Joy contacted one of her high school friends living in Pontiac at the time, Gordon Knowles. A relationship blossomed and the couple was united in marriage on November 13, 1965. Shortly after the birth of their first son, Joy and Gordon moved back to Caro to raise their family. She took a position soon after at the medical practice of Dr. Nigg and Dr. Miles that later became Caro Family Physicians. She remained at the practice for forty years, retiring in 2010, having spent her final years with Dr. Afonso Ferreira. Joy was an active member of St. Christopher Parish in Caro and participated with its Christian Service Group and food pantry. She was also a member of the Caro Moose Lodge and Arrowhead Golf Club. Joy enjoyed wintering in Florida for over twenty years at a home passed down over generations in her family that was purchased in the 1960's by her grandparents, Ray & Hazel Robinson. She centered her life around family, classmates, and coworkers, and was careful to stay in contact, and plan reunions or the next fun outing. Time with grandkids was especially cherished and she made a point to commit at least one week each year for a family vacation. One of her favorite vacations was in 2005 when she took the entire family to Disney. Everyone was able to stay in the same house and she made sure they visited all the parks. Spare time for Joy was often spent golfing, bowling, tending to her beautiful flowers, or feeding her beloved birds, especially hummingbirds. Left to cherish her memory are her loving husband of fifty-five years, Gordon Knowles of Caro; three children and their spouses, Shaun & Ann Knowles of Canton, Ryan Knowles of Lady Lake, Florida, Robin & Ryan Andjulis of Elk Grove Village, Illinois; eight grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Joy was preceded in death by one sister, Carol Brinkman. In keeping with Joy's wishes, cremation has taken place. A Memorial Mass will be held on Joy's birthday, Saturday, July 31, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Christopher Parish in Caro. The family will be present to receive friends at the church on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 10:00 a.m. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to St. Christopher Parish. Visitation Information Date: Saturday, July 31, 2021 Time: 9:00 am End Time: 10:00 am The family will be present to receive friends at the church on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 10:00 a.m. Service Information Date: Saturday, July 31, 2021 Time: 10:00 am St. Christopher Parish, Sacred Heart Church site Address: 140 Atwood St. Caro, MI 48723 A Memorial Mass will be held on Joy's birthday, Saturday, July 31, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Christopher Parish in Caro.