Modray Nell Knauss, age 90, of Panama City, Florida was surrounded by family as she joined her heavenly father on Sunday, June 20, 2021.  Modray was born March 12, 1931 in Alford, Florida to Gus and Bessie Mae Cooley.  A lifelong member of First Baptist Church, Modray was confident in her faith and the promise of Heaven.

Modray loved her family and was proud to call Panama City home.  Her life's work was caring for David, her husband of 72 years, her children, and her grandchildren.  She enjoyed calling her family, talking on the phone and making sure everyone stayed in touch.  As the host of Thanksgiving every year, Modray loved a family gathering and a full table.  She was delighted to have the family vacation house and entertain her grandchildren and their friends for spring break and summer vacations.

Left to cherish her memory are her loving husband, David Edward Knauss of Panama City, FL; daughter Judy Gardner of Alpharetta, GA; son Michael Knauss and wife Amy of Buford, GA; brother Tommy Mitchell Cooley and wife Olivia of Panama City, FL, Harold Cooley and wife Helen of Jonesboro, GA; grandchildren Emily Gardner Blackburn and husband Oliver, Abigail Gardner and fiancé Jim Manos of Atlanta, GA, Addison and Owen Knauss of Buford, GA; sisters-in-law Ivey Cooley and Alice Cooley; nieces and nephews Tommy Jr. and Elizabeth Cooley, Terry Wirt, Wally and Kim Cooley, Ronnie and Richard Cooley, Royce Clark, David and Sandra Crews, Rhonda Jean Neese, Joy Brittain, Mark and Mitchell Cooley; great grand-pups Scout and Archie; and a number of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who each held a special place in Modray's heart.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Gus and Bessie Mae Cooley; brothers Earl Cooley and wife Margie, Glen Cooley, Don Cooley, and Paul Cooley; sister Sarah Grace Crews and husband Gene; and her favorite son-in-law Max Gardner, Jr.

Family and friends will be received on Tuesday, June 22, 2021 from 4-6 p.m. at Wilson Funeral Home.  Funeral services will be held Wednesday, June 23, 2021 at 10 a.m. at Wilson Funeral Home in Panama City, Florida with Pastor Mark Cooley officiating.  A brief graveside service will follow at Evergreen Memorial Gardens.

Modray will be missed every day by her family and friends but we smile remembering the many years and wonderful memories we were blessed to share with her.