Varilla Lenore Knight (nee Davis), 87,of Elyria, in the arms of her loving children, was called home to her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on September 20, 2024, following a valiant battle against cancer. Born June 6, 1937 in Cleveland, Ohio to Clark and Flossie Davis, her life was woven in adventure, devotion, immeasurable faith, and joy that touched all those who were blessed to know her.

Varilla's life changed forever when she married the love of her life, Maj. Robert P. Knight on December 23, 1957. Together they built a footprint of love and respect that became the foundation of the legacy they leave behind to their children and extended family. Known as Mamaw to all who knew her, she led with unfailing selflessness, asking for nothing in return.

Varilla had a voracious love for travel that led her across the country and around the globe. She marveled at the Rock of Gibraltar, watched in awe at the whales in the Alaskan waters, stood on the steps of the Vatican, walked the path of her Savior in the Holy Land, and was baptized in the Jordan River. She loved the sparkling lights of Las Vegas, even managing three final trips to her favorite city in the last few months of her life. During her last few weeks, she was able to stand in the ocean and let the salt water wash in all its glory over her hot pink toenails.

Varilla enjoyed doing puzzles, and she had a deep relationship with reading - two loves that she passed on to her family, especially her granddaughters. There was always a novel and the Bible on her end table, and she could recite from the Good Book verbatim. Varilla outlived the doctors' expectations long enough to witness five generations of Knight women - a moment she prayed for every day. A prayer answered.

Varilla's infectious laughter, her fiery spirit, her tireless sarcasm, and her selfless generosity will be deeply missed, yet celebrated in memory for generations to come. As we say goodbye to Varilla, we know that her spirit will live on in all of us. She will continue to inspire us and guide us through the gifts she leaves behind.

In addition to her parents, Varilla was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, her sister Arietta Misch and her brother Leon Davis. She is survived by her loving children, Richard (Sherri) Knight of LaGrange, Dr. Donna Knight (John) of Sheffield Village, and Deborah Lauricia (Anthony) of Myrtle Beach; 11 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren with one on the way, and one great-great granddaughter. Before her passing, she was able to spend time with each and every one of those she leaves behind. She was at peace, and she was happy. Her joy was immeasurable, her faith undeniable.

Varilla and her family are eternally grateful to Hospice of the Western Reserve and Christ Church who gently cared for and prayed over her in her final days. Your kindness and support are forever appreciated.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, September 25, 2024 from 5 to 7 p.m., followed by a brief service at 7 p.m. at Laubenthal-Mercado Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 38475 Chestnut Ridge Road, Elyria, Ohio 44035. Inurnment will be private at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice of the Western Reserve, or to the Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) Foundation, in Varilla's honor.

Rest well faithful servant. Give our love to Dad.

It is Well…