Obituary

Mrs. Tawanna Lucille Knightnor-Davis was born on January 10, 1979, in the heart of Newport News, Virginia. She was a devoted mother, a beloved wife, and a deeply cherished daughter, sister, aunt, niece, cousin, friend, and cat mom. Her remarkable journey came to a peaceful close on November 17, 2024, at the early age of 45, following complications from heart failure.

As a child, Tawanna was vibrant and charismatic, with dimples as deep as little wells of happiness. Her dimples, etched like delicate marks of joy, became a timeless symbol of her natural beauty. After graduating from Bayside High School in Virginia Beach, Virginia, Tawanna embarked on a new chapter by answering a noble call. She enlisted in the United States Army, showcasing her dedication and selflessness. Her commitment to personal growth was inspiring, as she was on track to earn her associate degree in Business Administration from Strayer University this semester. Above all, Tawanna's greatest pride and joy were her two beloved children, Tya'Quan Knightnor and Miracle Brown, who filled her life with light and love beyond measure.

Known for her love of the color purple, Tawanna embodied its richness and warmth. With a heart of gold, her generosity was limitless, and her home served as a haven for those in need, filled with love and kindness.

She was a true food connoisseur as well as an avid reader! She loved hosting painting parties and family fun days, spreading joy and laughter to all.

Tawanna's legacy of love, resilience, and compassion is carried on by her children, Tya'Quan Knightnor and Miracle Brown; her parents, Carol Knightnor and John Turner; her siblings, Dianna Knightnor, Mark Knightnor, Stephanie Davis (Gamel Davis), Eric Studwell (Evangela Studwell), John Turner, Alfreda Power, Katrina Bullock, Kenny Knightnor, Cassandra Knightnor, and Stephanie Mason; her nieces and nephews, Lacendra Knightnor, Dallas Cogdell III, Ky'Yea Knightnor, A'Siah Knightnor, Cire Studwell, Cirada Carson, Kamari Studwell, Eric Johnson, Jordan Studwell, Savion Studwell, John Turner, Janiya Turner, and Jada Turner. She also leaves behind a host of bonus nieces, nephews, bonus siblings, extended family, and dear friends who cherished her deeply.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Andre Davis; her bonus mom, Mary Foreman; her maternal grandmother and grandfather, Lucille Knightnor and Osborne Knightner; her paternal grandmother and grandfather Louise Turner and Thomas Turner; and her great-nephew, Legend Studwell.

Tawanna's gentle spirit and boundless generosity touched the lives of everyone she encountered. Her passing leaves a void in the hearts of her family, friends, and community, but her memory will continue to inspire and uplift all who knew her.

A Celebration of Life service will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 7, 2024 at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel.