Don F. Knox, age 82, of Galax, Virginia passed away, Tuesday, November 23, 2021, at his home. He is survived by his soulmate of 59 years Melba, daughter and son-in-law Cindy and Doug Fleming of Galax, Virginia, and son and daughter-in-law Rick and Ellyn Knox of Franklin, TN. Three grandchildren Lucas Rudy of Radford, VA, Jordyn Knox student at University of Kentucky and Ethan Knox of Franklin, TN, step-granddaughter and husband Chelsey and Jake Quesenberry, sister and brother in law Norma Jean and Joe Alfano of Winston-Salem, NC, several nieces and
nephews, and a great-niece and several great-nephews.

Don was born on Jan 23, 1939, in Bluefield, WV to the late Randolph Curtis and Edith Irene Rolen Knox. Don was a lifelong educator as band/choir director and guidance counselor. Don emphasized that students be accomplished individually in solos and ensembles, as well as being productive team members in marching bands and symphonic orchestras. His love for music was infectious to the students he taught and motivated them to strive for perfection through hard work and comradery like a family.

Don and Melba were teachers with the Department of Defense School System educating children of military families for 3 years in Izmir, Turkey, and 6 years in Naples, Italy. He organized marching bands, international performances, and trips to various places; bringing with him his love for music and children as well as being an ambassador
through his love for music.

He was dedicated to community service with his church and community organizations reaching out through scholarships and fundraising activities. He was an active member of the Galax Y's men taking a leadership role in organizing scholarships for the three local high schools and the annual Community Christmas Chest Food Drive. He enjoyed participating in American Cancer Relay for Life and served as Treasurer for Retired Carroll County Teachers for many years supporting scholarships. Don directed the "Old Pros" Community Band at Dublin Community College for many years as well as played clarinet and saxophone with the group. Anytime special music was needed Don and his musical friends performed for various dances, funerals, weddings, anniversaries, conventions, etc. In his career, he was the musical director for many high school and community musicals locally, as well as, in Italy. After his teaching retirement, Don spent his energy on making music at nursing home facilities throughout the area.

He spent 60 years directing church choirs, writing songs, and producing accompaniment tapes, amp, and CDs. He felt like choral music was an instrument to provide a way to worship sharing Christian beliefs. Don shared his musical talents & amp, passion for music, storytelling, kindness, sense of humor with everyone along his path, making lasting memories for all people he met. He always had a way of showing genuine curiosity and unwavering devotion to those he cared about.

Visitation will be at Vaughan-Guynn Funeral Home Saturday, November 27th from 5 pm to 7 pm. The Funeral Service will be Sunday, November 28th, 2 PM at First United Methodist Church being officiated by Rev. Hugh Kilgore, Rev. David Payne and Rev Ronnie Collins. Graveside service will be at Mt. Vale United Methodist Church cemetery, all locations in Galax, VA.

The family respectfully request that in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to a scholarship in memory of Don Knox to The Galax Foundation of Excellence in Education, P.O. Box 487, Galax, VA 24333.