Joel Allen McKnight's Obituary
Joel McKnight passed away at the age of 72 on the morning of January 30, 2026 at Aultman Hospital due to complications from cancer. He fought a fierce and fast battle.
Joel was the son of Donald and Eva (Mancini) McKnight, born in Alliance, Ohio on July 24, 1953. He loved his city and was proud to call it home.
He grew up working with his father at the family business, Don’s Amoco. Then he later owned and operated Joel’s Garage for many years. There he would always help the community in any way he could from giving someone a couple dollars in gas, lending a tool, or making sure their car was working to get to work. After his retirement he worked part-time at Marlboro Manufacturing.
Joel loved his family and friends and treasured his two daughters so very much. He built and raced stock cars for forty plus years, and loved every minute of it, #8. Joel had such a zest for life. He was always up for hanging out, reminiscing and making others laugh. He enjoyed taking walks with his puppy CC.
For years he was a devoted member of the Christopher Columbus, Roma Society, and Regina Coeli Catholic Church.
He was such a loving father to daughters Stephanie McKnight of Alliance, Angela Green and son-in-law Michael Green of Louisville; grandfather to Garrett (Chelsea) Green and Emmalee Green. The best brother to Roselea (Timothy) Smith and Shelley (Mircea) Ciban of North Carolina. He adored his nieces and nephew Jessica, Teresa, Michelle and Nick, and great-niece Mila. He also leaves behind his aunts, cousins, and many friends including his life-long friends Margie (Jon) Russell, Jim Black and his breakfast club buddies. He is loved and will be forever missed by all.
Preceded in death, waiting to give hugs in Heaven are his parents Donald and Eva McKnight; niece Christina Smith; two honorary grandchildren Derrick “DJ” Johnson and Shantell “Buttercup” Watson; wife Ginny McKnight, little dog Peanut; Havey Buchannan and life-long friend Jim Bondoni.
In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Stark County Humane Society, https://www.starkhumane.org.
His Memorial Service will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026 at 5:00 pm at the Alliance B.P.O. Elks, 606 Glamorgan St., Alliance, Ohio 44601. A Celebration of Life Gathering will immediately follow at the Elks until 8:00 pm.
You are invited to view Joel's tribute wall, offer condolences and share memories at https://www.sharerfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are by the Sharer-Stirling-Skivolocke Funeral Home.
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