April 14, 2021, 70, Fremont –

A beloved husband, father, and community member was lost on Friday, April 14, 2021 when Stephen Allen Knotts, 70, passed away in a vehicle accident in Northern Wayne county.

Steve was the lead instructor of Industrial Systems and Mechatronics at Wayne Community College, where he developed innovative and award-winning programs on robotics, electronic engineering, and industrial automation. He was heavily involved in Goldsboro’s two community theater programs: Center Stage and Stagestruck. He built sets, special effects, and contributed to costumes for more than a dozen local theater and church productions.

In 2003, Steve led a grassroots fundraising and organizing effort to keep Fremont’s public library branch open. His efforts made it possible to expand, renovate, and preserve the Fremont library branch where it remains open today.

Steve was a constant supporter of the family’s church, Cornerstone Assembly of God, giving freely of his expertise and time to all sorts of needs.

Steve was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Sheila D. Knotts and five children: Chris Knotts and wife Meighan of Hillsborough, Sara Knotts of Fremont, Abby K. Rauscher and husband Josh of Cary, Katie Knotts of Chicago, and Jesse Knotts of Fremont. One of Steve’s greatest joys was also his eight grandchildren: Toby, David, Janna, Nathaniel, Elisa, Catherine, Lela Jane, and Lillian. He’s also survived by his mother Daisy Knotts and siblings Kris, Donna and David of Gallipolis, OH. Steve touched the lives of many students, friends, and community members.

Visitation and a memorial service for Steve will be held outdoors at Cornerstone Assembly of God in Fremont, NC on Wednesday April 21. Visitation is from 12-2 and service is at 3. Bring a lawn chair and join us. Covid protocols will apply during the outdoor services.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Steve’s honor to be made to the Cornerstone Church Building Fund. Checks may be sent to Cornerstone Church, PO Box 2107, Fremont NC 27830.