Nancy Knox's Obituary
Everyone who met Nancy Knox walked away feeling truly seen and valued. She loved the Lord and never met a stranger. Her friendships were lifelong.
Born in Memphis, Tennessee to Anne and Darragh “Pappy” McFadden, she was raised in Dallas attending Highland Park High School and Southern Methodist University where she was a member of Tri Delta sorority. Throughout she developed friendships that have lasted forever. In her later years she shared her love of crossword puzzles with all at Atria where she was intentional to know almost everyone's name. She made us smile, and she always will.
Nancy married John T. Knox, her World War II pilot in 1944 and they built a beautiful life together in Richardson, TX. They adopted two children, Dara Stewart and John Knox Jr "Tommy" who grew up knowing they were chosen, born in her heart, and loved beyond what any could imagine. "Mom was the greatest role model for life that anyone could ever have".
Nancy was an avid tennis player and pioneered pickleball. At 80 her coach was bragging how she was running the youngsters around the court. Bridge and games were always important as they grew and enhanced her friendships.
Her Catholic faith guided her daily, and she proudly helped found St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church. Her community around the church became the core of where she built her family.
Nancy's special talent was simple yet powerful: she made each person feel important. That warmth remains her lasting gift to friends, neighbors, and everyone who crossed her path.
Two months shy of 102 years old Nancy died, at home surrounded by her loved ones. We will honor her by treating every person with the same kindness she showed us.
Nancy was preceded in death by her husband of 72 years, John T Knox, and her brother, Darragh “Mac” McFadden.
She is survived by her children, Dara Stewart and John Knox Jr.; five grandchildren, Kelly Shafer, Scott Stewart, JT Knox, Stephen Knox, and David Knox; five great-grandchildren, Lilly Shafer, Henry Shafer, Kitty Shafer, Knox Stewart, and Arthur Knox; and a host of friends from over the years of her life whose lives she deeply and dearly touched.
A 9:30 Visitation followed by a 10:30 Celebration of life Service will take place on Friday, May 1, 2026 at Restland Funeral Home located at 13005 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, TX 75243.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances can be made to Catholic Charities.
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Share a story where Nancy's kindness touched your heart.
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