"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith."

-2 Timothy 4:7 (KJV)

James Stuart "Jim" Knorr Sr., of Forked River, New Jersey, who had recently relocated to Lillington, North Carolina, peacefully passed away from this life and awoke in the presence of his Savior, Jesus Christ, on July 18, 2026.

Jim was born on September 23, 1950, in Paramus, New Jersey, to the late Vinton Stuart Knorr Jr. and Mary Jane Journee Knorr.  A lifelong resident of New Jersey, Jim built a life marked by hard work, devotion to God, love for his family, kindness, compassion, and an unforgettable sense of humor.

Jim worked as a concrete mason for 50 years.  His long career reflected his strong work ethic, dependability, and commitment to providing for those he loved.

Jim became a Christian in 1980 and spent the remainder of his life striving to live in a way that was pleasing to the Lord.  He was a faithful member of Ocean County Baptist Church for more than 38 years, serving through children's ministry, nursing home ministry, juvenile detention ministry, and gospel tract ministry.  Each year for 30 years, Jim faithfully read through the Bible from cover to cover.

During his final weeks, Jim shared the joyful reminder, "Wake up for Jesus!" His family finds peace in knowing that he has now done that.

Jim also jokingly considered himself a hopeful future member of the church choir.  Although that opportunity never came during his earthly life, his family rejoices in knowing that he is now joyfully singing as a member of Heaven's choir.

Jim's warmth, compassion, devotion, and unmistakable sense of humor left a lasting impression on those around him.  Everyone who knew him became familiar with his inside jokes, playful quips, and unique sense of humor.  He had a special way of forming an individual connection with each family member and friend, making every person feel known and loved.

He was an enthusiastic collector of Lionel trains and enjoyed NASCAR, attending events at local racetracks, Ford Mustangs, and the history of America's founding and the U.S. Civil War era.  He also loved watching his favorite sports teams: the New York Yankees, New Jersey Devils, New York Giants, and New England Patriots.

In his younger years, Jim enjoyed photography, playing tennis, karate, and listening to the music of his generation.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Richard Washer; his brothers-in-law, Russell Little and Bruce Thornewell; and his niece, Melissa Knorr.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Sharol Washer Knorr; his children, James S. Knorr Jr., Lauren Knorr Acres and husband Jacob, Brenda Britton Barsch and husband Kurt, Steven Britton and wife Jodi, and Michelle Britton Falk and husband Erick; and his beloved grandchildren, Alivia Britton, Ian Knorr, Gabriel Falk, Colter Acres, and Saylor Acres.

He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Shirley Layton Washer; his sisters, Mary Kathleen Knorr Little and Valerie Knorr Thornewell; his brothers, Randell Knorr and wife Peggy and Bradly Knorr and wife Rosemary; his sister-in-law, Mary Ann Wagner and husband Jack; his brothers-in-law, Jeffrey Washer and wife Jessica and Scott Washer and wife DeAnne; his uncle, George Knorr and wife Maria; his cousins, Jeff, Debbie and Joyce; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

"Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints."

-Psalm 116:15 (KJV)

A celebration of his life will be held at O'Quinn-Peebles-Phillips Funeral Home Chapel in Lillington, North Carolina, on Saturday, August 1, 2026 beginning at noon.  The family will begin the service with a reading of Scripture and prayer, after which there will be an opportunity for family and friends to share stories, memories, and reflections in honor of Jim. If you have a memory or reflection you would like to have read and included in the service, please post it to the tribute wall.  For those in attendance, please feel free to wear something reflecting one of Jim's interests, favorite sports teams, or hobbies.

The service will be livestreamed for those who may not be able to attend in person: youtube.com, search @wendytingle9024, then select "live".  The livestream will start at 11:40 am.

Due to allergies, the family has requested no flowers or plants.  Donations in James' name may be made to Liberty Hospice.  Please make checks payable to Liberty Hospice and mail to 105 Hunt Valley Dr., Dunn, NC 28334.  Please note "James Knorr" on the memo line of the check.