Mildred “Millie” Knapp, 91, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 7, 2024. Born on September 25, 1933, in Schlater, Mississippi, to Baze and Ethel Cooper Dyche, Millie’s life was a rich tapestry of love, resilience, and passion.
On August 30, 1957, Millie married the love of her life, John Oliver Knapp.
Millie’s journey took her from the cotton fields of Louisiana to Greenville,Mississippi, where she completed her high school education before earning her nursing degree. Her professional career began as a registered nurse at the VA Hospital in Houston where Millie met John, and their shared life began.
Her passion extended far beyond her nursing career. After raising her children, Millie embraced her love for learning and exploration. She traveled the world, nurtured her love for piano, and immersed herself in the arts. Her entrepreneurial spirit later led her to establish a successful real estate business as a broker.
In her later years, Millie continued to inspire others. As a museum docent, she shared her passion for history, science, and art, bringing knowledge to life for visitors. As a Master Gardener, she cultivated beauty both in her home and her community. She found great joy in imparting her love of gardening, critters, and literature to her great-grandchildren.
Millie is survived by her daughter, Mary Saville; her grandchildren, Mary Saville, Forrest Saville, and John Saville; and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, her son, John Knapp, and her son-in-law, Scott Saville.
Millie’s legacy is one of love, tenacity, and lifelong learning. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
A visitation will be held at Forest Park Westheimer Funeral Home on Thursday, December 12, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. A celebration of Millie’s life will follow at 10:00 a.m. with a graveside service starting at 11:00 a.m. at Forest Park Westheimer Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to your charity of choice.
