Lorrie Lynn Knies

Lorrie Lynn Knies, 64, passed away at home in Madison, Va., on September 19, 2026, from complications of Alzheimer's Disease. Born January 13, 1962, in Nelsonville, Ohio, she was the daughter of the late Paul and Waneta Kennard.

Lorrie is survived by her son, Jason (Kristen) Knies; grandchildren, Lucy, Calvin, and Althea Knies; brother, Robert (Vicky) Kennard; brother-in-law, John Hutchison; niece, Caitlin (Steve) Brennan; nephew, Patrick Kennard; and special friend and caregiver, Bonnie Nicholson.

In addition to her parents, Lorrie was preceded in death by her brother, Lonnie Kennard, and sisters, Paula Hutchison and Priscilla Hamilton.

Soon after graduating high school, Lorrie moved from Ohio to the mountains of Virginia and pursued a career as an Interpretive Ranger for the National Park Service. She held a bachelor's degree from Mary Baldwin College and a master's degree from Stephen F. Austin State University. Lorrie dedicated her life to educating others about the natural world and how to preserve its beauty. She was courageously independent, and lived a deliberate life, guided by her principles of service, a deep appreciation of the natural world, and love.

Lorrie developed many diverse talents and passions throughout her life. She was an avid reader, weaver, and cook. She could often be found hiking with her beloved dogs, bird watching, and enjoying bluegrass music. Lorrie loved to travel and treasured the many family vacations to national parks across the country.

Lorrie's greatest joy in life was being a mother and grandmother, and she will be deeply missed and always remembered by her family. Her legacy will live on in the people she loved and the wild places she worked so faithfully to protect.

A memorial service will be held on September 29, 2026, at 2:00, at Calvary Free Will Baptist Church in Rochelle, Va.

In lieu of flowers, please consider visiting or making a donation to a national park, or making a donation to the Alzheimer's Association in Lorrie's memory.