Barbara Jean Knop

Barbara Jean Knop, 81, of Middlesboro, KY went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at Middlesboro Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Middlesboro, KY.  She was born December 20, 1942.  

Barbara spent her life taking care of those around her. She valued her role as mother to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren more than any other. She treasured her family and became the rock on which they always leaned. She was a constant source of love, warmth, shelter, and would not hesitate to tell you exactly how she felt. She always enjoyed telling funny stories and loved to keep those around her laughing. She could often be found enjoying herself at the local bingo halls managing multiple games at once and pulling pull tabs quicker than anyone. Her faith defined her, and her warmth was felt by all who entered her home. Throughout her life she wore many other hats. No stranger to hard labor, she worked as a coal miner, a truck driver, and a cook. But at the end of the day, her role as wife and mother is the one she cherished most. 

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, John Knop. She is survived by her daughters, Nancy Wagers, Donna Hatfield, Amanda Miracle, and Brittany McGarrh; son, Eli Wilson Jr.; grandchildren, Phillip Brock, Maria Leija, Jose Leija  Jr., Kevin Wilson, Kayleigh Wilson, Shanice Gilbert, Breanna Bobo McKenzie Wilson, Elisha Hatfield, and Bryson Hatfield; great-grandchildren, Hailey Miracle, Josh Miracle, Anthony Miracle, Julian Knop, and Paige Miracle; a host of other relatives all of Middlesboro, KY, and many friends.  

A memorial service for Barbara Jean Knop will be held from 2:30 p.m. until 4:30 p.m., on Sunday, February 11, 2024, at the AME Zion Church located at 109 Ironwood Road, Middlesboro, KY.  

In lieu of flowers, friends and family are invited to make a donation to Barbara’s Go Fund Me page so that her family can afford her wish of cremation. Go Fund Me: https://gofund.me/4f680834 

Online register book and condolences are available at www.cawoodfh.com. 

All arrangements for Barbara Jean Knop are under the care of Cawood Funeral Home, Middlesboro, KY.