Herbert Durward Kneeland III
February 15, 1944 - September 28, 2024
Herb was a beloved friend & volunteer extraordinaire at Daystar. He owned property across the street from the little yellow house for many years. One day, Herb wandered over and in no time, he became an unofficial staff member…our (volunteer!) handyman and friend. Herb could fix anything and if you were lucky enough to catch him in the middle of a job, he’d teach you, too. Sometimes he would bring his grandkids along on the job and soon the Kneeland and Jones families became a part of the Daystar family, too. His granddaughters Mallory and Courtney Jones are Hopetown interns, carrying on the beautiful legacy Herb began. Whether it was coming up early to Hopetown “Work Days” to get the property ready for retreats…Inspiring staff members to become avid hikers in his footsteps…or giving generously of his time, money and talents…Herb and his wife Judy have left an irreplaceable mark on Daystar!
We are honored to receive gifts in his memory. Read more about his life below.
Herb, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on the morning of September 28, 2024. Herb lived a full and joy filled life, centered around his deep faith, his love for his family, and his sincere heart for serving others. He also loved his country deeply, proudly serving in the Air Force and Air Force Reserves.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Judy Kneeland, his children- Matt Kneeland (Gwinn) and Kristen Kneeland Jones (Tony). He was also a proud and loving grandfather to Hew, Eleanor, Herb, Henry, and Emilyn Kneeland, and Mallory, Courtney, and Jeremiah Jones.
Herb always enjoyed time spent outdoors appreciating God's creation. Later in life, he developed a deep passion for hiking. He enjoyed exploring trails in and outside of Tennessee and completed his goal of hiking the Appalachian Trail. He spent many hours dedicated to caring for local hiking trails through various organizations including Friends of Warner Parks.
His greatest passion in life was helping anyone in need. Whether it was giving a ride, repairing broken bikes, a handyman project at Daystar Counseling Ministries, serving communion to someone who was homebound, or building something he designed from scratch, he never hesitated to serve others.
Herb was a long-time member of Covenant Presbyterian Church where he served for many years as an elder. His wisdom, humble leadership, and grace filled spirit will be remembered by all who knew him.
A service will be held by the family to celebrate Herb's life at 1:00 p.m. on October 2, 2024 at Covenant Presbyterian Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Covenant Presbyterian Church or Daystar Counseling Ministries.
