William “Bill” F. Knapp, 78, a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, passed away February 20, 2025 at the Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks.
He was born April 13, 1946 in Greenland, AR. the son of Martha D. Neisler and Orville Knapp.
William attended and graduated from Greenland High School. On October 5, 1970 at the age of 24, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He also attended the Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD. He valued his service highly and attained the rank of HM2. As a part of his service, he attained the Navy Achievement Medal, First Good Conduct (for period ending 30Nov79), and Second Good Conduct (for period ending 30Nov83).
He is survived by two daughters, Susie Knapp and Jenny Hall; and three grandchildren, Reese Bennington, Rachael Alagna, and Michael Hall.
His loved ones will always remember his big heart and enduring qualities. He always put his daughters and grandkids at the top of his list! His love for them was unprecedented.
A service honoring his life will be 12:30 PM Friday, February 28, 2025 at Beard’s Funeral Chapel. Interment will follow in the Fayetteville National Cemetery with military honors.
There is no scheduled visitation.
Fair winds and following seas, Shipmate. We have the Watch.
I will forever miss you Daddy!
Best papaw I could’ve ever ask for. A gift sent straight from God, now you will dwell with him in peace. Love you papaw.
Papaw, I miss you so much. I will never forget the moments we had. You had a heart of gold. You put others before yourself and for that I always admired that about you. I love you so much and pray that you are up with Jesus learning from him. See you in heaven!!
It was honor to meet this man and spend time in his presence. He truly brought light to those he loved. He was unwaverlingly committed to his family and country. He will be truly missed.
keep Bugsy company Papaw i miss you and love you very much. Thank you very very much for everything you did for your family. Rest high and in peace
Thank you Bill for always being there. You had a heart of gold and I was blessed knowing you for 25 years. Rest in peace, you’re home now.
I went to school with Bill and graduated at Greenland with him. Also attended church with him for several years at Wiggins United Methodist Church. He was a good friend and classmate that everyone liked. I just found out today that he had passed. I’m so sorry that none of his classmates knew about it. I’m sure there would have been several attend his service. My deepest sympathy for your loss.
Saddened to hear of Bills passing. I went to school with him at Greenland. He was a kind person and I know he was always nice to me. I wanted to extend my condolences to the family. You are all in my Prayers!