July 4, 2025, 7, Goldsboro —
Maverick Matthew Knoll, 7, passed away unexpectedly on July 4, 2025, leaving behind a trail of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Born in Johnston County on December 12, 2017, he was the son of Eric Knoll and Brianna Champion Knoll.
In addition to his parents, Maverick is survived by his siblings, Kinsley Knoll, Gibson Knoll, and Walker Knoll; maternal grandparents, Mike Champion and wife, Tricia, and Genean Johnson and husband, Frank; paternal grandparents, Joe and Linda Knoll; aunt, Presleigh Champion; uncles, Steven Worden and wife, Kayla, Gregory Champion and wife, Erin, Joey Knoll and wife, Kristy, Jeremy Knoll and wife, Becky, David Knoll, and Ben Knoll and wife, Brittany. Maverick is also survived by many cousins that he loved dearly and his special canine companion, Josie.
Maverick was not just a son, brother, grandson, or nephew—he was a gift. He was a beam of sunlight wrapped in laughter and compassion. To his parents, Maverick was the heartbeat of their world; a sweet, silly, and strong spirited little boy who made life richer just by being in it. To his siblings, he was everything: the best brother anyone could ask for, a faithful sidekick, a fierce protector, and the warmest little hand to hold.
Maverick was a rising 2nd grader at Faith Christian Academy, where he took great pride in his schoolwork, especially memorizing his Bible verses. His faith was simple and strong, a beautiful reflection of the pure heart God gave him. His teachers and classmates knew him as bright, kind, and full of curiosity.
At home, Maverick loved playing Fortnite and Roblox, often laughing and enjoying his games. He had a gentle heart for animals, especially dogs, and always showed kindness and care to every creature he met. When he got older, Maverick wanted to fly planes so he could see the world from the clouds, milk cows like his mama, and build bridges like his daddy. His imagination had no ceiling, and his heart had no walls. Every day with Maverick felt like a new adventure — because in his world, anything was possible, and everyone was loved
This world is a better place for having known Maverick; and though his wings were called home before he could grow them fully, we believe he’s flying now—higher than he ever dreamed, over fields and bridges of his own making.
A service to celebrate Maverick’s life will be held on Thursday, July 10 at 3 p.m. at Faith Church in Goldsboro. The family will receive friends prior to the service, from 1 p.m. until 2:45 p.m. A private interment will be held following the service at the Mary Lee Cemetery in Kenly.
Flowers are welcomed, or memorials may be sent to the Wayne County Animal Shelter 1600 Clingman Street, Goldsboro, NC 27534 in memory of Maverick and his love for animals.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.seymourfuneralhome.com.
