Forever In Our Roots
Honoring those whose lives continue to shape our family story.
Walter Leo Knell (1916-2003)
aka J. Wellington Jones, Jr., Esq.
Walter Leo Knell had a remarkable gift for helping things grow. From developing an innovative watering system for farms in his hometown of New Castle, Utah, to building a successful landscaping business in the Nevada desert, Leo's "green thumb" became one of his defining traits. More importantly, he cultivated faith, music, laughter, and strong family ties that continue to flourish today.
After moving to Las Vegas in 1961, Leo founded Leo's Lawn Service, where his talent for creating beautiful landscapes became well known throughout the valley. A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he served faithfully in many callings and found great joy in encouraging his children and grandchildren to develop their musical talents.
Leo's legacy lives on in the family he cherished and in the values he nurtured—hard work, faith, music, humor, and a love that continues to strengthen every branch of the family tree.
Charlene Stirling (1851–1928)
Life sketch coming soon!
Amy Elizabeth Ricketts (1927–2016)
Amy Elizabeth Ricketts Davis Knell embraced every season of life with faith, curiosity, and a heart devoted to family. Whether serving others, learning a new skill, or spending time with those she loved, Amy approached life with enthusiasm and gratitude.
Born in Richfield, Utah, and raised in Antimony, Amy built a life centered on family. She was the mother of three children and, after marrying Walter Leo Knell in the St. George Utah Temple in 1981, joyfully welcomed five stepchildren into her heart, creating a blended family creating a blended family united by love, faith, and shared traditions.
Amy's strong work ethic led her through a variety of careers, including years as a buyer for Vegas Village, a tutor with America Corp., and a partner in Leo's landscaping business. Never one to stop growing, she later took up piano, painting, and even tap dancing. A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she found great joy in serving in leadership callings and as a temple worker.
Amy's legacy lives on through the family she cherished and the example she set of faith, lifelong learning, joyful service, and unconditional love.
Walter Stirling Knell (1951-1969)
Life sketch coming soon!
Robert Frank Knell
Life Sketch coming soon!
Wallace "Wally" Lamond Davis
(1948-2016)
Wallace "Wally" Davis believed that places matter because of the people they bring together. Throughout his life, he dedicated himself to creating beautiful, welcoming spaces where families could gather, play, remember, and make lasting memories.
After graduating from Rancho High School in Las Vegas and the College of Southern Utah, Wally built a career in drafting, landscaping, and public service. He eventually joined Cedar City, where he served for nearly three decades as Cemetery Sexton and later Parks and Recreation Director. During his time with the city, he helped oversee projects including the cemetery expansion, the Veteran's Memorial, Memorial Tree Park, and numerous park improvements that continue to serve the community today.
A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Wally faithfully served in many callings and spent years coaching youth baseball. He loved camping, fishing, traveling with his sweetheart, Sandy, photographing nature, tending his yard, and sharing the same cheesy jokes again and again—all with a smile that reflected his genuine love for people.
Wally's legacy lives on in the parks, memories, and countless lives he enriched through his kindness, service, and unwavering love for family and community.
Terrie Ann Knell (1956-2024)
Terrie Ann Knell had a gift for making people feel loved. Whether she was sewing a quilt, caring for babies in the church nursery, or spending time with her grandchildren, she expressed her love through quiet acts of service that left a lasting impression on everyone around her.
Born in Orlando, Florida, Terrie's family eventually settled in Las Vegas, where she met the love of her life, David Knell. They were married in 1977 and later sealed in the Las Vegas Nevada Temple, building a home centered on faith, family, and devotion to one another for nearly 47 years. Together they raised two children, Michael and Erica.
An accomplished seamstress, Terrie loved quilting and sewing clothes for her family. She also enjoyed a successful career in banking and accounting before retiring after 20 years with the City of Henderson. A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she faithfully served in many callings and later served alongside David as a service missionary.
In retirement, Terrie found her greatest joy in being "Grandma," cherishing every moment with her growing family. Her legacy of kindness, faith, and selfless love continues to bless all who knew her.
